Histopathologic features of oral submucous fibrosis: a study of 35 biopsy specimens.

OBJECTIVES

This study was carried out principally to confirm the diagnosis of Oral Submucous Fibrosis, to provide a more detailed description of the Histopathological changes occurring in OSMF and to look for and record any new finding which might be detected. For this reason only previously untreated cases were selected for biopsy.

SETTING

Patients reporting at Liaquat University Hospital, Dental Out Patient Department, Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan.

SUBJECTS: 35 biopsy specimens were obtained from patients presenting with Oral Submucous Fibrosis reporting prior to receiving any instructions or management and still using areca nut preparations in some form. Patients with overt malignancy were not included in this study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Histopathological analysis was carried out to confirm the disease and to evaluate the microscopic features of Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF).

RESULTS

Diffuse nonspecific chronic inflammation with fibrosis was present in all specimens (100%). Classical picture of OSMF was found in 20 (57.4%) of specimens while 16 (45.7%) showed Lichenoid reaction as well. OSMF with ulceration was present in 14 (40%) specimens. Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia was recorded in 9 (25.7%). Dysplastic changes were seen in 3 (8.6%) specimens.

CONCLUSION

This study gives a detailed account of the histological changes along with the frequency of their occurrence and describes a new finding of Lichenoid reaction occurring in OSMF.