Dental evaluation in bone marrow transplantation.

In the case presented, thorough radiographic and clinical examinations would have precluded misinforming the patient and prevented a six-week delay of the bone marrow transplant. The patient's ill feeling was generated because of confusion about the recommended dental treatment. This was unfortunate, given the considerable physical and emotional stress that these patients endure under the best of circumstances. Because of the severity of immunosuppression before and (for three months) after transplantation, and the life-threatening nature of oral infection, elimination of oral infection is paramount for successful BMT. This can only be achieved by adequate diagnosis and prompt, aggressive dental treatment.