A Study of Oral Mucosal Lesions

Background: The oral cavity has been looked upon as a ‘window to the body’ and ‘mirror of general health. There are common potentially malignant disorders like leukoplakia, erythroplakia, oral submucous fibrosis, lichen planus; some systemic disorders can also be premalignant. We undertook the study to find out common conditions in our region and their demographics to see the etiological factors associated with them. Methods: This study consists of 560 patients who presented to the ENT department of our institution from November 2020 to November 2022 with lesions of the oral cavity. After complete ENT examination, provisional diagnosis was made. Biopsy was taken to confirm the clinical diagnosis cases with suspicious premalignant lesions which were diagnosed clinically. Results:  In present study, majority of oral lesions were seen in the age of 21-60 year. Out of 560 patients 330(59%) were males and 230(41%) were females. The most common site of involvement was buccal mucosa followed by tongue. Oral submucous fibrosis seen in maximum number of patients as habit of pan masala chewing is more prevalent in Gujarat. In present study 71 patients are having malignant lesion ,202 with premalignant lesion,287 with benign lesion. Conclusion: In Indian population, oral lesions are very common due to various systemic diseases, addictions and low socio-economic state. Oral submucous fibrosis, leukoplakia common premalignant conditions seen in middle aged patients. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment prevents morbidity as well as disease progression. Tobacco consumption in all forms smoking tobacco and alcohol, are the major risk factors associated with malignant lesions.