Oral leukoplakia and its malignant transformation as a diagnostic tool in oral squamous cell carcinoma: A retrospective clinicopathological study

Abstract

Context: Oral leukoplakia is considered as potentially malignant disease and oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common cancers in various countries. Aims: The aim of this study is to assess the rate of malignant transformation of oral leukoplakia in the diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Settings and Design: A total of 165 patients were included in the study in 2-month duration. Subjects and Methods: Clinically and histopathologically confirmed cases of oral leukoplakia and other premalignant disorders were retrospectively studied. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics included calculation of percentages. Data distribution was assessed for normality using Shapiro–Wilk test. Categorical data were compared using Chi-square test. Results: Among 165 cases, 55.46% of males were affected as compared to females and mostly patients of both sexes were of 40–50 years of age. A total of 140 oral leukoplakia cases were present with 59.28% of males and 40.71% of females, whereas only 25 other premalignant cases were reported with 44% of males and 56% of females. 69.28% and 52% of oral leukoplakia and other premalignant cases were involved in buccal mucosa. Histopathological analysis stated that out of 140 oral leukoplakia cases, 39.28% were present with malignant transformation and P value was 0.0007. Conclusions: Malignant changes of oral leukoplakia play an important role in the diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma and males are more at risk to develop malignancy; therefore, close observation, early diagnosis, appropriate treatment plan, and prognosis are required to prevent malignant transformation.