ABSTRACT
ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS Ionizing radiation is used to treat many malignancies by targeting dividing cells. For oral SCC, radiation is typically given in 2 Gy daily fractions up to about 70 Gy. The therapeutic effects of radiation are dose dependent, as are the complications. The effect of radiation is non - specific and therefore normal cells, like malignant ones, undergoing division are also susceptible to the therapy. Basal epithelial cells, which divide frequently, are particularly susceptible to radiation, and this can lead to mucositis.
