Prevention of Stomatitis: Using Dexamethasone-Based Mouthwash to Inhibit Everolimus-Related Stomatitis

Background: A common class-specific toxicity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors is stomatitis. Some patients experience a severe form of mTOR inhibitor–associated stomatitis (mIAS) that can have a negative effect on nutritional status, compromise quality of life, and potentially lead to nonadherence, reducing the efficacy of cancer therapy.

Objectives: This article aims to address an unmet need for education about mIAS among oncology nurses and patients and to share findings about everolimus-related stomatitis from the SWISH trial.

Methods: The authors reviewed the literature on mIAS and selected a case series of experiences to illustrate successes and clinical challenges that an oncology nurse might encounter when caring for patients with advanced breast cancer who may develop everolimus-related stomatitis.

Findings: Recommendations are provided for oncology nurses to educate patients on prevention, early detection, monitoring, and management strategies to mitigate the incidence and severity of everolimus-related stomatitis.