Pathogenesis and therapeutic intervention of oral submucous fibrosis

Abstract

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is a chronic, progressive, potentially malignant condition affecting the oral cavity and frequently involving the upper part of the aerodigestive tract including the oropharynx and the upper part of the esophagus. It is characterized by juxtaepithelial inflammatory reaction and progressive fibrosis of lamina propria, leading to stiffening of the oral mucosa eventually causing trismus. This condition is associated with significant morbidity and high risk of malignancy. Over the years, several drugs and combinations have been tried for the treatment of submucous fibrosis, but with limited success, because of its unclear molecular pathogenesis. Till date, there are no known effective treatments for OSF. The aim of this article is to emphasize on the molecular changes taking place in OSF and possible therapeutic interventions.

Proposed new grading of oral submucous fibrosis based on cheek flexibility

“…The overall prevalence rate in India is believed to be about 0.2% to 0.5% and prevalence by gender varying from 0.2-2.3% in males and 1.2-4.57% in females (7,8). It is considered to have a high degree of malignant potential, which ranges between 2.3% and 7.6% (9).…”

Comparative evaluation of natural antioxidants spirulina and aloe vera for the treatment of oral submucous fibrosis

“…The precancerous nature of OSMF is still unanswered, however it has been proved by, higher occurrence of OSMF in oral squamous cell carcinoma patients, histological diagnosis of cancer without any clinical suspicion in OSMF, high frequency of epithelial dysplasia and higher prevalence of leukoplakia among OSMF. 16,18 The pathology is suggested to develop within the epithelium due to intraoral trauma and various other irritational factors and poor oral hygiene. 19 Various treatment modalities have been advocated with no significant success, for relieving the symptoms.…”

“…6 The overall prevalence rate in India is believed to be about 0.2%e0.5% and prevalence by gender varying from 0.2 to 2.3% in males and 1.2e4.57% in females. 15,16 It is considered to have a high degree of malignant potential, which ranges between 2.3% and 7.6%. 17 Majority of OSMF patients present with irreversible moderate-to-severe condition and may be associated with oral leukoplakia and other potentially malignant disorders such as squamous cell carcinoma.…”

Spirulina: An Emerging Treatment Modality for the Management of Oral Submucous Fibrosis

“…41,42 It is encountered frequently in the Southeast Asian countries. 42,43 The prevalence of OSMF is documented to be about 0.2 to 0.5%. 43 However, this fibrotic condition presents with a 7 to 30% malignant transformation rate, which is of great concern.…”

“…42,43 The prevalence of OSMF is documented to be about 0.2 to 0.5%. 43 However, this fibrotic condition presents with a 7 to 30% malignant transformation rate, which is of great concern. 44 OSMF is hence, considered as a potentially malignant disorder.…”