'Third space' perspective on redefining oral pathology: Hypothetical considerations

Abstract

Recent molecular analysis has shown the evidences which claims human interstitum as a new organ in the body. However, in routine hematoxylin and eosin stained sections these spaces are not evident and thus probably has not received much attention. The implications of this discovery in oral pathology, especially cancer metastasis are immense. Although the structure and components of oral mucosa differ from that of skin and gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in various aspects, if the above findings are established in the oral submucosa, various oral diseases related to fluid and fluid dynamics may perhaps be reviewed. In this editorial, we have made attempt to hypothetically consider the various possible implications of 'third space' in the field of dentistry.