ABSTRACT
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is indeed one of the most common types of oral cancer, typically affecting individuals over the age of 50. It primarily originates from the squamous epithelial cells lining the oral cavity. While it is relatively rare in individuals under 40 years old, it can still occur, albeit less frequently in that age group. Risk factors for developing OSCC include tobacco use (smoking or chewing), excessive alcohol consumption, chronic irritation (such as from poorly fitting dentures), human papillomavirus (HPV), infection, and certain dietary foods. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing the mortality associated with this type of cancer. This report describes a case of OSCC, staged T2 N0 M0, involving the right buccal mucosa of a 51-year-old male patient. The patient reported intense pain in an ulcer on the right side of his cheek. This report focuses on the etiological factors and a brief literature review of squamous cell carcinoma.
ABSTRACT
Oral cancer is the sixth most common malignancy globally with a wide geographic variation. India is the second largest consumer and third largest producer of tobacco in the world. One-third of the global burden of oral cancer is predominantly attributed to high prevalence of tobacco consumption. The highest incidence and prevalence of oral squamous cell carcinoma is found in the Indian subcontinent particularly in the lower socioeconomic strata, due to an increase in the deleterious habits of potent, proven carcinogens like smoking, chewing tobacco, betel quid and areca-nut. Also, there is a delayed presentation of oral cancer in India, as approximately 50% of patients are diagnosed at stage III or IV. In this article, we report five varied presentations of well differentiated oral squamous cell carcinoma from rural belt of Tamil Nadu. All the cases were reported late to diagnose. Clinical and radiological staging plays a pivotal role to stage an oral malignant patient which aids in guiding him to a proper treatment plan. Early diagnosis along with patient counselling is of vital importance for the prognosis of the patients with oral malignancies. Also, it is an utmost important duty of the health care professionals to create awareness on oral cancer especially in rural areas. For this reason, dentists play a very significant role in the early detection and prevention of oral malignancies.
ABSTRACT
Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a leading cause of mortality due to late diagnosis in India and most other developing countries. Buccal squamous cell carcinoma is almost always preceded by premalignant conditions that include leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral lichen planus, and submucous fibrosis of the oral cavity. Hence, these patients warrant regular screening by oral health care professionals and proper monitoring for any dysplastic changes. Implementing social awareness about early signs and symptoms, as well as education on self-oral screening methods so as to avoid the risk of late presentation of oral squamous cell carcinoma, should be made mandatory for such individuals to prevent further complications.
