Oral submucous fibrosis: a review

Oral sub mucous fibrosis (OSF) is a high risk precancerous condition, predominantly affecting Indian. Data from recent epidemiological studies provide overwhelming evidence that areca nut is the main etiological factor for OSF. Aclear dose-dependent relationship was observed for both frequency and duration of chewing areca nut (without tobacco) in the development of OSF. Limitation of mouth opening result in difficulty in mastication is the main presenting feature. Although nutritional deficiencies and immunological processes may play an important role in the pathogenesis. The available epidemiological evidence indicates that chewing betel quid (containing areca nut, tobacco, slaked lime or other species) is an important risk factor for OSF. It has been postulated that areca nut may also induce the development of the disease by increased levels of cytokines in the lamina propria. Hence the present article OSF reviewed the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical features & management.