Abstract: The radiation-induced mucositis, along with other associated symptoms, such as mucositis-related pain, xerostomia, thick saliva and dysphagia, etc. are common co-existing oropharyngeal symptoms identified in patients with head and neck cancer during radiotherapy. This review aims to elaborate and summarize the general impacts, available assessment methods, influencing factors, and management strategies of the oropharyngeal symptoms experienced by patients with head and neck cancer, therefore, to provide evidence for future research on symptom management among these patients and offer references in guiding clinical practice.

Key words: head and neck cancer; radiotherapy; oropharyngeal symptoms; symptom management; review