Diagnostic Adjuncts in Oral Cancer Evaluation

Abstract

Oral cancer is a major health concern in developing countries like India which contributes one-third of the global oral cancer burden. Unlike other non-head and neck malignancies, oral cancer has a more curative treatment course. If detected early, oral cancer has the best treatment outcomes. However, most oral cancer has a dismal five-year survival rate as the majority are diagnosed in late/advanced loco-regional stages. Current methods of assessment for oral cancer include, thorough clinical examination under white light and biopsy. Over the years, a number of diagnostic tools have been created as adjuncts to white light evaluation to help with the early diagnosis of oral cancer. This article's goal is to discuss the present diagnostic techniques for oral cancer as well as potential future uses of cutting-edge, innovative technology for the detection of the disease. This may expand our diagnostic choices and enhance our capacity to accurately identify and manage lesions associated with oral cancer.