We investigated the relationship between oral care and candida species in 16 patients (14 men and 2 women) undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. They also received oral care by specialized dental staff. Candida species were detected in 12 patients (75% of all patients): C. albicance was detected in 8 cases (50%) and non-C. albicance was detected in 4 cases (25%). Advanced oral mucositis of more than grade 3 was seen in 13 patients, and candida species were detected in 11 cases.
Oral care in consideration of candida species is important because C. albicance and non-C. albicance were frequently detected in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer even though their oral condition was well maintained.