Estimation of Serum Beta 2-Microglobulin Levels in Individuals Exposed to Carcinogens: Clinical Study in Indian Population

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study is to evaluate the prognostic value of β2-m as a biochemical parameter for the diagnosis and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Materials and Methods: The study included 60 patients (15 oral SCC, 15 leukoplakia, 15 individuals exposed to various carcinogens and without oral cancerous or precancerous lesions, 15 healthy individuals). The levels of β2-m were estimated using chemi-luminescent immunometric assay on Immulite fully automated machine. Statistical analysis of the data was done using Tuckey’s test, ANOVA and independent sample t test. Results: Results showed that β2-m was increased in individuals exposed to carcinogens without precancerous and cancerous lesion. Conclusion: Serum β2-m can be used as a better indicator and can give an early indication of malignant change and therefore malignancy can be detected at an early and treatable stage.