The first part of Egle Immonen’s research offered important insights into the long-term effects of childhood cancer treatments on oral health. Nearly 40% of children treated for leukemia showed abnormalities in dental development. Importantly, those diagnosed at a younger age and those who received more intensive treatment tended to have more severe dental disturbances.
In the second phase of her study, children undergoing cancer treatment were randomly assigned to use one of two mouth rinses – Caphosol or saline – aimed at preventing mucosal injuries. The severity of mucosal damage was evaluated according to standard criteria, and patients’ symptoms were recorded. Additionally, oral mucosal swab samples were collected to analyze changes in the oral microbiome.
Although no significant difference was observed between the two rinses, microbiome analysis showed significant shifts during treatment. Some bacterial species appeared to protect against mucositis, while others may contribute to its development. These findings suggest that an imbalance in the oral microbiome could play a role in the severity of mucositis.
“It is important to understand how childhood cancer treatments affect oral health. This is essential for improving patients' quality of life during and after treatment,” says Immonen.
In conclusion, these research findings hopefully provide valuable guidance for dental professionals, pediatricians, childhood cancer patients, and their families in managing oral health during and after treatment. Given the significant impact of oral health on overall well-being, ongoing follow-up is crucial for early detection of potential long-term effects and for providing effective, timely interventions.
Public defence on Friday 12 December
The doctoral dissertation of pediatric dentist Egle Immonen in the field of medicine, biosciences and biomedical engineering titled Short- and long-term impacts of childhood cancer treatment on oral health will be publicly examined at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology at Tampere University at 12 o’clock on Friday 12.12.2025 at Kauppi campus, Arvo building, auditorium F114 (Arvo Ylpön katu 34, Tampere). The Opponent will be Professor Janna Waltimo-Siren from the University of Turku. The Custos will be Professor Olli Lohi from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere University.