Early Detection of Oral Cancer: Diagnostic Methods and Challenges

Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) remains a significant global health burden, characterized by high morbidity and a five-year survival rate that has seen little improvement over the past decades, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis. Early detection is the single most critical factor in improving patient outcomes, as localized lesions (Stage I and II) carry a significantly better prognosis than advanced-stage malignancies. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of current and emerging diagnostic modalities, ranging from the gold-standard clinical visual examination (CVE) to advanced molecular and digital adjuncts. The abstract explores the integration of optical imaging technologies, such as tissue fluorescence and narrow-band imaging, alongside the promising field of salivary liquid biopsy. Despite technological advancements, several challenges persist, including the "wait and see" approach often adopted by clinicians, the lack of standardized screening protocols, and socioeconomic barriers that limit access to specialized care. This review synthesizes data from various clinical trials to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of these tools. Furthermore, it addresses the burgeoning role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning in automating the detection of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs). The findings suggest that while high-tech adjuncts offer enhanced visualization, they cannot yet replace histological examination. The paper concludes that a multimodal approach combining clinician education, public awareness, and the deployment of cost-effective screening tools is essential to reduce the global burden of oral cancer. This study aims to provide a roadmap for researchers and practitioners to bridge the gap between bench-side innovation and bedside application, ensuring that early detection becomes a reality for at-risk populations worldwide.

کلیدواژه ها:

oral cancer ، early detection ، Salivary Biomarkers ، Diagnostic Adjuncts ، oral squamous cell carcinoma