The oral flor as a source of septicemia in patients with acute leukemia.

This study was performed to determine the role of the oral cavity in causing septicemia in patients with acute leukemia. Thirty-three patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia were investigated prospectively via clinical, hematologic, and microbiologic techniques. The mouth was the most likely source of septicemia in seven of twelve cases. Necessary dental treatment prior to chemotherapy was accompanied by a significant reduction in the rate of septicemia. The authors conclude that oral sources of bacteremia should be eliminated prior to chemotherapy in patients with acute leukemia.