Oral Cancer in Oral Submucous Fibrosis: Report of 3 cases

Oral Submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic scarring disease of the oral cavity causing progressive limitation of mouth opening. Although common in South Asia, where areca nut chewing is common, the disease assumes global relevance because of immigrant population. Although well recognized as a potentially malignant disorder, dental professionals hardly encounter frank malignancies arising from OSMF. We report 3 cases of Oral Cancer in OSMF. The alarming rise of OSMF cases in the younger population and the immense popularity of gutkha worldwide are a cause for concern. This paper aims to create awareness among oral health care professionals about the various forms of areca nut use, the presentation of OSMF and the need for a careful long-term follow-up of these patients, irrespective of the habit or the mouth opening parameters, to ensure early detection of Oral cancer.