Histopathological interpretation of oral cavity lesions

Abstract

Although the oral cavity lesions constitute only a small minority of pathological conditions, they are of great significance, as they have a potential to jeopardize the health and longevity of the patient. Among the various oral cavity lesions, oral cancer is a global health problem with increasing incidence and mortality rates. In India a vast majority of oral cancers are preceded by precancerous lesions & conditions caused by the use of tobacco in various forms. The aim of the present study is to know the spectrum and patterns of various oral cavity lesion. All the oral cavity specimens received in the Department of Oral Pathology, during the study period were included for the study. Data such as age, gender, and site of the lesion was collected. Data collected was analyzed. A total of 100 cases were analyzed during the study period. Age ranged from 2 to 78 years in the study. Overall male were affected more than the female with male: female (M:F) ratio of 3.5:1. Buccal mucosa (33%) was the commonest site involved followed by tongue (28%). Neoplastic lesions accounted for 69% cases and non-neoplastic accounted for 31% cases. Among the neoplastic lesion, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) was seen in 40% cases; verrucous carcinoma in 6% and ameloblastic carcinoma in 1% cases; and adenosquamous carcinoma 1% cases. Most of the malignant lesions were located in the buccal mucosa (16%) and tongue (15%), followed by gingiva (6%), palate & floor of mouth (4%) each, lips (2%) alveolus (1%). Histology along with a detailed clinical work-up was found to be a useful, reliable and accurate diagnostic technique for lesions of oral cavity. A variety of lesions were encountered in the study with predominance of malignant lesions. Squamous cell carcinoma was the commonest malignant lesion.