Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, December 04, 2023 – Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF), also known as fibrosis of the oral buccal mucosa, is a highly chronic and terribly debilitating disease that affects the mucous membrane lining the mouth. We often see it as a characterisation of excessive collagen deposition leading to a hardening and shrinking of the oral tissues, leading to restrictive mouth opening and then risk of oral cancer. OSMF is primarily associated with the consumption of Supari (betel nut) and excessive spicy food (capsine), a stimulant widely used in Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, along with chewing tobacco, eating paan masala and Gutkha.

The most common symptoms of OSMF include:

• Restricted mouth opening, also known as trismus, due to the tightening of oral buccal tissues
• Burning sensation in the mouth during eating food.
• Frequently Oral Ulceration in Tongue and Mouth.
• Difficulty in chewing and swallowing
• Altered taste perception
• Whitening of the oral mucosa
• Smooth and shiny appearance of the oral mucosa

OSMF is considered a precancerous, premalignant condition, meaning it carries a significantly increased risk of developing into Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) or Oral Cancer, which happens to be the most common type of disease occurring among OSMF patients.

Studies have shown that the risk of Oral Cancer in OSMF patients is 7 to 13 times higher than in the general population.

Early diagnosis and proper treatment of OSMF are crucial to prevent its progression to Oral Cancer. Prompt intervention by trained dentists can help manage and alleviate the symptoms, greatly improve oral function, and reduce the terrible risk of malignant transformation. Some general treatment options for OSMF include:

• Cessation of areca nut-Supari, Gutkha, paan masala, khaini consumption.
• Modification in diet.
• Tropical medications to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Oral physiotherapy to improve mouth opening and flexibility.
• Laser Surgery in severe cases to remove excess fibrous tissue.

OSMF and Oral Cancer share a complex relationship. The chronic inflammation and fibrosis associated with OSMF disrupt the normal cellular processes in the oral mucosa, making them more susceptible to genetic mutations that can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and oral cancer development. Additionally, the presence of OSMF can probably mask early signs of Oral Cancer, making it more challenging to detect the disease at an early stage.