Oral Submucosal Fibrosis: A Potentially Malignant Condition to be Considered

A fatal disorder named oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is marked by the oral submucosa's progressive fibrosis. OSMF is distinguished by aberrant collagen deposition. In 1.5–15% of patients, it’s a precancerous condition that progresses to a malignant tumour. Although nutrient deficiencies and immunological procedures could perform a role in pathogenesis, epidemiological evidence suggests that betel nut quid (which contains guvacine, arecoline, guvacoline, arecaidine, and chavibetol) contains areca nut, slaked lime, tobacco, is a significant risk factor for OSMF. Submucous fibrosis, xerostomia, ulceration, a burning sensation, and a limited mobility of the mouth are among the symptoms. The patient's quality of life is seriously affected by each of these components. The present article gives a broad overview of OSMF from a molecular viewpoint and describes what has been learned about its underlying causes, methods of diagnosis, and available treatments. Along with active therapy for OSMF, prophylaxis is essential, and this section gives a quick review of its treatment.