Proposed clinical classification for oral submucous fibrosis

Abstract

Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic, progressive, scarring disease, that predominantly affects people of South Asia and South-East Asia, where chewing of arecanut and its commercial preparation is high. Presence of fibrous bands is the main characteristic feature of OSMF. Based on clinical and/or histopathological features of OSMF, various classifications have been put forth till date. But the advantages and drawbacks of these classification supersedes each other, leading to perplexity. Our various studies and clinical experience in the field of OSMF have initiated us to propose/introduce the new clinical classification which could assist the clinician in the categorization of this potentially malignant disorder according to its biological behaviour and hence its subsequent medical and surgical management.