Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a disease of the oral mucous membrane predominant in South Asia. With the increased availability and popularity of areca nut, the incidence of the disease has increased. The manufacturers have managed to make the tiny sachets more appealing and attractive for all age groups. OSMF draws attention because the disease has no known cure and the number of areca nut chewers is increasing without any check, despite of the bans setup by the governments curbing the sale of such products. There are millions of people suffering from the disease. Besides arecanut, autoimmunity is also a causal factor. OSMF has a known malignant potential, with its transformation to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) documented. The article reviews the mechanism behind malignant transformation of OSMF and henceforth the newer treatment options that are being studied.

Key words: Oral submucos fibrosis, squamous cell carcinoma

Corresponding Author: Dr. Kiranjot Kaur, Email: qiiran@yahoo.com.au

This article may be cited as: Kaur K, Kaur J, Singh S, Kaur N, Kaur K. Pathogenesis in the malignant transformation of oral submucous fibrosis: a review. J Adv Med Dent Scie Res 2016;4(4):27-31.