[Yeast fungus flora in tumor irradiation of the upper aerodigestive tract].

The microflora of the oral cavity and pharynx were examined in 28 patients undergoing radiotherapy for cancer of the upper aerodigestive tract. We found no correlation between yeast flora and mucositis: early mucositis occurred between 10 and 20 gy. independent of the concentration of yeast. During radiotherapy the number of patients with detectable yeasts rose from 12 to 22 of the 28. There was a tenfold increase of mean values for yeasts during irradiation, whereas the normal flora (eg. streptococci) remained unchanged. The value of an antifungal local therapy for the prevention of yeast-induced complications is discussed.