Quantitative correlation of serum and salivary trace elements in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral potentially malignant disorders: An institution-based biochemical analysis

• Published in: Journal of oral and maxillofacial pathology : JOMFP Vol. 28; no. 3; pp. 434 - 442
• Main Authors: Samadi, Fahad M., Sivakumar, N., Sonam, Manjari, Sharma, Pooja, Suhail, Shaista, Ahmad, Mohammad Kaleem
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: India Wolters Kluwer - Medknow 01.07.2024; Medknow Publications and Media Pvt. Ltd; Medknow Publications & Media Pvt. Ltd
• Edition: 2
• Subjects: Analysis; Biochemical analysis; Blood levels; Cadmium; Copper; Development and progression; Magnesium; Oral cancer; Oral carcinoma; Oral squamous cell carcinoma; Original; Original Article; Saliva; Serum levels; Squamous cell carcinoma; Trace elements; India; Oral potentially malignant disorders; oral squamous cell carcinoma; trace elements; salivary biomarkers
• ISSN: 0973-029X; 1998-393X
• DOI: 10.4103/jomfp.jomfp_34_24

Abstract Background: Trace elements are the important components that play a crucial role in various functions of the human body at cellular and molecular levels. Considering the role of the trace elements in precancerous and cancerous conditions, estimation of their levels in these conditions could aid in understanding the disease process and progression. The purpose of this study is to determine the alteration in salivary electrolyte concentration of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients to correlate the variations with the severity and biological behaviour. Material and Method: A total of 70 subjects were included in this study, and they were divided into three groups: patients with OSCC (30), OPMDs (30) and apparently healthy individuals (10). An informed consent was obtained, following which blood and saliva samples were collected from the participants. Salivary and serum levels of copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, calcium and magnesium were measured and compared between the groups. Results: The levels of biochemical elements in both serum and saliva were in perfect correlation. The amount of all the estimated metallic ions was found to be significantly (P 0.001) increased in OSCC followed by OPMDs and normal mucosa. The levels of copper, cadmium and magnesium were gradually increased in increasing grades of OSCC (P 0.001). Conclusion: Salivary trace element levels could possibly have diagnostic significance in the early evaluation of OPMDs and OSCC as well. Increased levels of these elements might be used as a marker of disease progression and predictor of prognosis.