Mucosal therapy for potentially malignant diseases and OSCC

Abstract

Despite remarkable advances in our ability to manage and treat a number of hematologic and solid malignancies, there has been a paucity of new chemotherapeutic agents to significantly improve the outcomes and survival of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) patients (Furness et al., Cochrane Database Syst Rev (4):CD006386, 2011). Surgical resection and radiation and systemic chemotherapy are first-line options used in the management of most patients. The cure rate for early-stage OCSS patients remains very promising; however, these lifesaving surgeries are often accompanied by tremendous sacrifices. Many patients are left with cosmetic and functional disfigurement and require adjunctive support for basic functions such as chewing, swallowing, and, in some cases, even breathing. The exploration of local delivery methods, such as mucosal therapy, holds promise due to decreased systemic toxicity, consequently decreased morbidity, and improved patient quality of life (Saba et al., Oral Oncol 51:112-118, 2015). Furthermore, topical therapies offer an alternative in the treatment of malignant precursor lesions, such as leukoplakia and erythroplakia, so that patients may be treated earlier and remain in the purview of nonsurgical oral healthcare providers.