Abstract
AimTo evaluate the levels of circulating immune complexes, trace elements (copper, iron and selenium) in serum of patients with oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), oral leukoplakia (L), and oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), analyze the alteration and identify the best predictors amongst these parameters for disease occurrence and progression.MethodsCirculating immune complexes (CIC) were estimated using 37.5% Polyethylene Glycol 6000(PEG) serum precipitation. Serum estimation of copper (Cu), Iron (Fe) and selenium (Se) was done using the Oxalyl Dihydrazide method, Colorimetric Dipyridyl method and the Differential Pulse Cathodic Stripping Voltametry respectively.ResultsThe data analysis revealed increased circulating immune complex levels in the precancer and cancer patients. Serum copper levels showed gradual increase from precancer to cancer patients. However, serum iron levels were decreased significantly in the cancer group. Selenium levels showed marked decrease in the cancer group. Among CIC, serum, copper, iron and selenium the best predictors for the occurrence of lesions were age, serum iron, CIC, serum selenium in the decreasing order.ConclusionThe present study shows that these immunological and biological markers may be associated with the pathogenesis of oral premalignant and malignant lesions and their progressions. Concerted efforts would, therefore, help in early detection, management, and monitoring the efficacy of treatment.
Highlights
Oral cancer the sixth most common cancer worldwide continues to be the most prevalent cancer related to the consumption of tobacco, alcohol and other carcinogenic products[1]
Oral precancer and cancer In India, oral cancer is prevalent in most areas where tobacco related practices are observed
If one observes the mouths of heavy tobacco users, the accumulation of tobacco residue may be correlated with areas of the oral cavity involved [3]
Summary
Oral cancer the sixth most common cancer worldwide continues to be the most prevalent cancer related to the consumption of tobacco, alcohol and other carcinogenic products[1]. While the cancer incidence remains high in South and South East Asia (its traditional high risk areas); parts of Central and Eastern Europe are seeing alarming increase and constitute the highest incidence parts of the globe[2]. Epidemiological studies indicate that intervention at an early stage might reduce oral carcinoma related deaths. Oral precancer and cancer In India, oral cancer is prevalent in most areas where tobacco related practices are observed. For development of oral cancer, tobacco is the single greatest risk factor. This is due to higher concentration of carcinogenic exposure and failure to clean the carcinogens from the mucosal surface. Viruses, genetic mechanisms, candida, chronic irritation and diet deficiency states are implicated in the etiology[4,5]
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