Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma With and Without a History of OPMDs: A Retrospective Study of Clinicopathological Characteristics

Abstract

Simple Summary A substantial proportion of oral squamous cell carcinomas develop without clinically detectable precursor lesions, making early diagnosis particularly challenging. Identifying differences between tumors arising from oral potentially malignant disorders and those developing apparently de novo may improve understanding of oral carcinogenesis and support more effective surveillance strategies. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the clinical characteristics, risk factors, histopathological features, and diagnostic management of patients affected by oral squamous cell carcinoma with or without a history of precursor lesions. In a cohort of 77 patients, most tumors developed in the absence of recognized precursor lesions, while patients with oral potentially malignant disorders underwent more frequent biopsies and closer follow-up. These findings support the existence of heterogeneous carcinogenic pathways and highlight the need for careful clinical surveillance beyond patients with known precursor lesions.