The Science Behind OSMF

Oral cancer is one of the ten foremost cancers of the world and one of the frequent cancers in India. Every year in India, oral cancer causes about 7% of all cancer deaths in males and 4% in females. Oral submucous fibrosis, predominantly seen in south and south-east Asia, is a chronic incidious disabling potential premalignant condition. OSMF is a disease that causes changes similar to those of systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) but limited to oral tissues. It derives its name from the dense fibrous tissue in the submucous layer of the palate and cheek, represents a clinical picture of its well-developed state,which results in intolerance to spicy foods, a burning sensation in the mouth, xerostomia, limitation of mouth opening, tongue mobility, swallowing or phonation. The diagnosis of OSMF can be established by various methods such as biochemical investigations and biopsy. Oral submucous fibrosis is most poorly understood and unsatisfactorily treated disease because of unknown etiology. There are various treatment modalities in management of OSMF including habit counseling, medicinal treatment.