Oral squamous cell carcinoma of tongue: Histological risk assessment. A pilot study

Background: More than 90% of malignant tumors diagnosed in the oral cavity are Oral Squamous Cell Carcinomas (OSCC) whose preferred location is the tongue. Classically, this disease has affected men preferentially, although recent studies suggest that trends are changing and the proportion of women with OSCC is increasing. In addition, the prevalence of oral cancer is also determined by some risk factors as alcohol consumption and tobacco. Currently, the Tumor, Node, Metastasis (TNM) classification is employed to defined tumor stage and based on this guide specific treatments are established. However, 5-year-survival does not exceed 50% of cases. The objective of this study is to determine whether a histological risk pattern indicative of higher recurrence might be present in T1-T2 tumors located in the anterior two thirds of the tongue. Material and Methods: Samples from 26 patients with OSCC were analyzed and histological risk pattern of recurrent and non-recurrent tumors were compared. We have analyzed histological variables described in Anneroth and Brandwein-Gensler classifications. Additionally, we have also examined both clinical variables such as age, sex or comorbidities, as well as habits such as tobacco or alcohol consumption. Results: We found that sex (male) and keratinization degree (high or moderate) are directly related with OSCC recurrence. In fact, free illness time is lower in men and higher in those cases with minimal or no keratinization. Conclusions: Based on the variables analyzed, it has not been possible to establish a histological risk pattern that, complementary to the TNM classification, could have a predictive role in these early-stage tongue carcinoma

Update and Making-Decisions in Dental Traumatology

Dental traumatology is highlighted as an unexpected emergency event which can occur at any moment, age, sex, and gender. Crown fractures account for most traumatic injuries occurring in the permanent dentition. A complete radiographic examination is considered essential in order to assess the state of the pulp, the degree of root development, and the existence of any pathologies affecting the supporting tissues. These examinations also provide a useful tool for subsequent comparisons with those conducted after treatment, ensuring adequate clinical follow-up. Additionally, avulsion of permanent teeth has been highlighted as one of the most relevant dental injuries; therefore, the prognosis of this traumatic event has been directly related to the treatment decision-making process and the time passed since the accident. In addition, dental trauma is also one of the most frequent emergency situations seen in Pediatric Dentistry; moreover, the dental injury of the temporary teeth could also affect to the permanent teeth; hence, it is necessary to perform an exhaustive clinical and radio diagnostic exam to allow a correct diagnosis and a predictable treatment plan. Therefore, the creation of action protocols makes it possible to simplify and facilitate decision-making under stressful situations for patients and clinicians