Chemotherapy induced thrombocytopenia: A study of its implications for oral health and quality of life in the oncological patient

Title: Chemotherapy induced thrombocytopenia: A study of its implications for oral health and quality of life in the oncological patient

Abstract:

Chemotherapy-Induced Thrombocytopenia (CIT) is one of the most critical complications in the management of pediatric oncological patients, generating a state of hemostatic fragility that has historically led to the systematic denial of essential dental care due to hemorrhagic risk. This omission, far from protecting patients, forces the suspension of chemotherapy cycles caused by untreated oral infections, directly compromising oncological prognosis. This study aimed to create and validate a safe, evidence-based dental care protocol for pediatric oncological patients with CIT, treated at the "Dr. Luis Razetti" University Hospital and the Aníbal Saud Children's Hospital in Barcelona, Anzoátegui, Venezuela. A descriptive-explanatory field study was conducted with a census sample of 10 pediatric patients (ages 3–18) under active chemotherapy, all presenting platelet counts above the critical threshold of 30,000/µL. The multimodal protocol integrated autologous biotechnology Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) with pharmacological agents including Tranexamic Acid (TXA) and Benzydamine Hydrochloride, alongside strict hematological monitoring and psycho-behavioral management. Dental caries was the predominant finding (90%), followed by mucositis and ulcers (40%), periodontal disease (20%), and oral candidiasis (10%). Results demonstrated 100% clinical success in hemorrhage control across all invasive and non-invasive procedures, including tooth extractions. Tissue regeneration was 40% faster compared to conventional methods, opportunistic infections were fully resolved, and no chemotherapy cycle was suspended due to oral causes. A specialist hematologist confirmed full willingness to implement a joint multidisciplinary protocol, validating the approach. This study demonstrates that CIT is a manageable condition not a contraindication for dental care when supported by standardized guidelines, local hemostatic agents, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The proposed protocol transforms dental intervention from a perceived risk into a safe, integral component of pediatric oncological care, with significant implications for quality of life and treatment continuity.

Biography:

Alejandra is a bilingual dentist (Spanish/English) and recent graduate of the School of Dentistry at the Northeastern Private University "Gran Mariscal de Ayacucho," Venezuela, currently awaiting degree conferral following the submission of her thesis in January 2026. Over the past year, she has dedicated her research to pediatric oncology and oral pathology, conducting clinical work at the "Dr. Luis Razetti" University Hospital the largest and most complex healthcare center in Anzoátegui State, serving over 1.4 million patients annually.She is a passionate advocate for the integration of oral health into systemic medicine, with a particular focus on underserved communities. In addition to her clinical career, she leads Studio 20, her own digital marketing enterprise. She believes dentistry extends far beyond aesthetics, and she is committed to advancing the role of oral care in oncological and social medicine.