Dentofacial hypoplasia due to radiotherapy for rhabdomyosarcoma in a child

A case of secondary dentofacial deformity due to late effects of irradiation for childhood cancer originating in the oral cavity is reported. A 15-year-old girl was referred to the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Kurume University Hospital, because of masticatory dysfunction. The patient had received chemotherapy and irradiation because of rhabdomyosarcoma of the soft palate at 3 years of age. A total radiation dose of 4,000 cGy with 60Co had been delivered to the oral and maxillofacial region, including the maxilla and mandible. Bilateral micrognathia and hypoplasia of the permanent teeth in the irradiated field were observed. We emphasize the importance of oral care during treatment and follow-up of patients with childhood cancer to improve quality of life. (author)