The under-recognized problem of medically induced oral mucositis: Scope, treatments, results

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James L Ratcliff

Rowpar Pharmaceuticals Inc., Scottsdale

: Dent Health Curr Res

Abstract

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Medically-induced oral sores and oral mucositis are a growing and largely under-recognized problem. Over 150 chemotherapy drugs alone induce oral sores in 30 percent or more of their users. Many patients are confined to intensive care units (ICUs) of hospitals so that they can receive proper hydration and nutrition intravenously (IV) simply because their mouths are too inflamed and sore to receive food and drink. Immune-compromised patients develop oral thrush comprised of multiple species of candida rendering treatments, such as antibiotics and azole drugs ineffective in addressing fully the problem over the during of treatment. This session reviews treatment options and outcomes and the role the dental professional can play in helping patients with medically-induced oral mucositis get well and stay well

Biography

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James L Ratcliff is Chairman of the Board and CEO of Rowpar Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Scottsdale, AZ, maker of the Dentists Choice and CloSYS brands of oral care products. In 2014, Rowpar received the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Exporter of the Year Award. From 1989 to 2000, he served as senior research scientist, professor and director, Center for the Study of Higher Education at the Pennsylvania State University. From 1979 to 1989, he was professor and program head for higher education at Iowa State University. He is author of 120 articles, books, book chapters, is co-inventor on over 24 patents and patents pending. He is active member of the Arizona Biotechnology Assn., American Academy of Oral and Systemic Health, American Education Research Assn., and the International Association for Dental Research. He holds a PhD in Higher Education from Washington State University, a M.A. in History from Washington State University, and a B.A. from Utah State University.

E-mail: jratcliff@rowpar.com