765 / 815
Xerostomia
Salivary production decreases within 1
st
week RT
Severity depends on:
– Dose and fractionation of radiation
– No. of glands irradiated (unilateral or bilateral)
– Minor salivary glands assoc with resting saliva production
Glands most affected = Parotid
Loss of Salivary function complete and permanent after doses >35Gy
Significant evidence that IMRT prevents xerostomia