Review Article
Year : 2024 | Volume : 13 | Issue : 1 | Page : 22-27
Understanding Microbial Dysbiosis as a Key Driver in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Pathophysiology
Vikram S Amberkar 1, Kochli Channappa Niranjan 2
1-Professor, Department of Oral Pathology, College of Dental Sciences, Davangere, 2-Professor & Head,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, SDM College of Dental Sciences and Hospital,Shri Dharmasthala ManjunatheshwaraUniversity, Dharwad
Address for Correspondence:
Dr. Vikram S Amberkar,
M.D.SProfessor, Department of Oral PathologyCollege of Dental Sciences, Davangere-577004
Email:drvickys@gmail.com
Abstract
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) presents a significant global health challenge, with established risk factors including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Recent research has illuminated the role of the oral microbiome in OSCC pathogenesis, highlighting microbial dysbiosis—a disruption in microbial balance—as a potential contributor to disease development. This review examines how dysbiosis influences OSCC through altered microbial composition, chronic inflammation, production of carcinogenic metabolites, and biofilm formation. Pathogenic bacteria like Fusobacterium nucleatum and Porphyromonas gingivalis are implicated in fostering a pro-inflammatory milieu conducive to carcinogenesis. Additionally, microbial metabolites and biofilms play crucial roles in OSCC progression. The review underscores the promise of biomarkers and interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, and targeted antimicrobial therapies in early detection and therapeutic strategies for OSCC. Future research directions should focus on optimizing these approaches to improve clinical outcomes while minimizing unintended consequences associated with oral microbiome modulation.
Keywords: oral squamous cell carcinoma, oral microbiome, microbial dysbiosis, chronic inflammation, biofilm, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis
Financial support and sponsorship:
Nil
Conflicts of interest :
There are no conflicts of interest
How to Cite this Article: Amberkar, V. S., & Niranjan, K. C. (2024). Understanding Microbial Dysbiosis as a Key Driver in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Pathophysiology: Review Article. International Journal of Histopathological Interpretation, 13(1), 22–27. https://doi.org/10.56501/intjhistopatholinterpret.v13i1.1092
