Oral submucous fibrosis: A demographic study

Abstract

Introduction: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) has the highest malignant potential disorder than any other oral premalignant lesions. It is found in the Asian subcontinent, mostly India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. The understanding of the exact role of alkaloids and other etiological agents with respect to pathogenesis will help in the management and treatment modalities. Materials and Methods: A total of 1006 patients of OSF attending the dental outpatient clinic of the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology over a period of 24 months were selected for the study. A detailed case history and clinical examination was done in visible light. The diagnosis of OSF was difficulty in opening the mouth and associated blanched oral mucosa, with palpable fibrous bands. Other diagnostic features included burning sensation, salivation, tongue protrusion, habits and associated malignant changes. Study was done on the basis of age group, habit duration, frequency of habit, and type of habit. Statistical Analysis Used: Simple correlation analysis was performed. Results: Of the 1006 cases of OSF studied, 422 (41.94%) cases were stage II. Two hundred and twenty six (22.29%) were stage IV, 184 (18.29%) stage III, and 174 (17.29%) stage I. Among the groups divided based on age, Group II (20-30 years age) showed more prevalence than the others. Areca nut (gutkha) was a powerful etiological factor (60.43%) among other etiological factors. Conclusion: In the present study it was concluded that although the prevalence based on duration and frequency of habit was variable, it was found that most of the subjects were having stage II OSF and the severity was more in subjects who were chewing for longer duration and swallowing.