A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY ON MALGINATE TRANSFORMATION OF ARECA NUT CHEWING SYNDROME

Background: Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic and progressive condition with a significant potential for malignant transformation, primarily affecting populations in South and Southeast Asia. The condition is closely linked to habitual areca nut consumption, tobacco use, and nutritional imbalances. Characterized by excessive fibroelastic deposition, OSMF leads to restricted oral opening, mucosal stiffness, and an increased susceptibility to developing Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). While the causative factors of OSMF are well established, the precise biological mechanisms driving its malignant progression remain insufficiently understood. Given its widespread prevalence in India, there is a critical need for further research to identify key risk factors contributing to the transformation of OSMF into OSCC, enabling early diagnosis and targeted therapeutic interventions. Objective: The study aims to assess the malignant transformation of OSMF into OSCC, identify risk factors influencing this progression, and analyze the demographic, clinical, and histopathological characteristics of affected individuals. Materials and Methods: This study analyzed OSCC cases, focusing on malignant transformation from OSMF. Patient data were categorized based on demographics, clinical features, and pathology. Cases with concurrent oral lesions, incomplete records, or other malignancies were excluded. Statistical analysis using SPSS (version 23) was performed to assess significant correlations among clinical parameters. Statistical analysis was performed using ttest and chi-square test in SPSS software to assess associations between variables. Results: This cross-sectional study analysed 119 OSCC patients, identifying 13% malignant transformation from OSMF. Pan chewing (55.9%) was the most common habit. 53.3% exhibited nodal involvement. Organism presence (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus epididymis) significantly correlated with OSCC (p=0.00). Gender, habits, and age showed no significant impact on tumour grading (p>0.05). Conclusion: The findings reinforce the malignant potential of OSMF and highlight the critical role of early detection and intervention. Areca nut and tobacco consumption significantly contribute to disease progression. Future research should focus on molecular and genetic factors influencing malignant transformation to develop targeted preventive strategies.