Oral submucous fibrosis: an overview of the aetiology, pathogenesis, classification, and principles of management

Abstract

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a complex, debilitating, and precancerous condition. Formerly confined to the Indian subcontinent, it is now often seen in the Asian populations of the United Kingdom, USA, and other developed countries, and is therefore a serious problem for global health. The well-known causative agent of the disease, areca-nut is now recognised as a group one carcinogen. We review and discuss all components of OSMF, including the terminology, presentation, aetiology, and pathogenesis, and provide a brief overview of its management.

Keywords: Aetiology; Areca-nut; Gutkha; Oral submucous fibrosis; Pathogenesis; Review.