Radiotherapeutic effect on oropharyngeal flora in head and neck cancer.

The effect of radiotherapy on oropharyngeal bacterial and mycotic flora was studied. Thirty five patients were included from whom swabs were taken before and at the end of irradiation. Fifteen controls were included.It was found that Streptococcus pneumoniae was significantly decreased at end of irradiation, while there wan an increase in Staphylococcus aureus. Pseudomonas, Bacteroides and Candida species. There was no change in culture and sensitivity pattern prior to and after radiotherapy.