CD2 Lozenges in Preventing Acute Oral Mucositis in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Receiving Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy

RATIONALE: Lactobacillus bevis CD2 lozenge may help prevent symptoms of mucositis, or mouth sores, in patients receiving radiation therapy and chemotherapy. This therapy may improve the quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer. PURPOSE: This phase III trial studies how well Lactobacillus bevis CD2 lozenge prevents oral mucositis in patients with head and neck cancer who are being treated with cisplatin and radiation therapy. These results will be compared to results in patients using placebo lozenges.