Aim The aim of the study is to evaluate the prognostic value of b2-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 b2-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 b2-m was increased in individuals exposed to carcinogens without precancerous and cancerous lesion. Conclusion Serum b2-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.

The stability of location of mental foramen and significant difference in length of superior and inferior border of the foramen in relation to lower border of the mandible with respect to gender offer its application in forensic identification of gender.

Aim: To compare the efficacy of combination therapy (low level laser therapy [LLLT] and topical steroids) with topical steroid therapy alone in individuals with symptomatic oral lichen planus. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 30 patients who reported to our department with clinically and histologically proven symptomatic oral lichen planus (OLP). All the patients were assessed for the criteria of outcome—pain, burning sensation, size of the lesion, clinical resolution, and recurrence. The patients were randomly assigned into two groups each comprising of 15 patients. Group I (study group) patients received a combination of topical steroid and LLLT while Group II (control group) patients received only topical steroid therapy. Results: A significant pain and burning sensation reduction were found in the patients who were given LLLT (P: 0.05). There was a decrease in the size of the lesion which was statistically significant. A complete clinical resolution was achieved and only 11% recurrence occurred in the study group. This therapy appears to be effective in patients with symptomatic OLP. Conclusion: The LLLT therapy appears to be useful in relieving pain and burning sensation, reduction in the size of the lesion, with complete clinical resolution and minimal recurrence, and hence, can be considered as a valuable aid in managing symptomatic OLP. Thus, the LLLT therapy serves as a potent and independent therapeutic modality in symptomatic OLP.

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