Small cell osteosarcoma, a rare histological subtype, has very infrequently been reported in the mandible. We present a case of a 28-year-old female who had classic signs, symptoms, and radiographic features of the lesion. The histology showed sheets of small round cells and osteoid. The absence of the latter would have made it difficult to distinguish from other small round cell tumors of bone, especially Ewing's sarcoma. We have reviewed the clinical and radiographic features, cytologic and histologic characteristics, as well as the immunohistochemistry and molecular genetics of small cell osteosarcoma.

Introduction: Tissue processing involves transition of the biopsy tissue in graded concentration of various chemicals to make the tissue amiable for sectioning. The entire process takes 2–3 working days before a microscopic slide is ready for diagnosis. In order to shorten the turnaround time, rapid tissue processing method using methyl salicylate was developed. Aim: The aim of this study is to develop a rapid tissue processing technique using methyl salicylate as a clearing agent and to compare it with routine tissue processing technique. Materials and Methods: A total of 70 tissue specimens were cut into two equal halves. One each was processed by routine processing technique (RoPT) and rapid processing technique (RaPT). Tissue specimens were measured before and after processing. Quality of staining and cellular-level shrinkage were observed and scored for specimens. Statistical analysis using Welch's unequal variances t -test was performed. Costs of chemicals in both the techniques were compared to see the cost-effectiveness of RaPT. Results and Conclusion: Outcomes of both the processing techniques were comparable with statistically not significant P values for all the parameters. Hence, the results of RaPT technique are satisfactory, and the use of this technique may prove beneficial to pathology laboratories.

The matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) belong to a group of proteolytic enzymes. They are synthesized as inactive zymogens and ultimately get activated and degrade extracellular matrix which, in turn, leads to tumor progression and metastasis. Numerous studies suggest that individual MMPs have crucial role in tumor invasion and metastasis. As the understanding of the MMPs has advanced, the therapeutic approach on blocking these enzymes by matrix metalloproteinases inhibitors has rapidly developed. At present, clinical assessment of broad spectrum and low-molecular-weight MMP inhibitors is made. In this review, we provide an overview of MMP activities and mentioned briefly on previous studies conducted on appearance of MMPs in oral squamous cell carcinoma. Finally, we have discussed the role of MMPs as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Background: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a major contributor to disability and death caused by malignant tumors. While of global relevance, variations in social, cultural, and geographic factors affect tumor behavior and response to treatment. In this study, we undertake a 5 years institutional review and analysis of OSCC cases in the south Indian setting. Results: The total number of the patients included 65 males (44.8%) and 80 females (55.2%) whose age ranged from 23 to 80 years (mean ± standard deviation; 52.86 ± 13.18 years). An incidence was highest in 40-45 and 60-65 age group. Buccal mucosa 44 (30.4%) was the most common site, followed by tongue 27 (18.6%). Most lesions (58%) were well differentiated. Patients with poorly differentiated lesions had a comparatively lower mean age than their counterparts with other histological varieties, and this was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Conclusion:The pattern of OSCC differs from that of previous studies in relation to incidence and age correlation with the grade of carcinoma. Since the majority of the lesions were well differentiated, there is a need for intensive oral health awareness to encourage early presentation, to cancer center, as this will further enhance prognosis.

Aim: To study the role of senescent fibroblasts (SFs) and its secretory phenotypes promoting fibrosis and malignancy in oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). Material Methods: A total of 20 cases of OSMF and 20 normal oral mucosal tissues were taken for the study. The tissue sections were stained for IHC-immunohistochemistry with senescent cell marker p16INK4a. The supernatant solution of the transport medium was studied for leached out senescent associated secretory proteins (SASP): matrix metalloproteinases 9 (MMP9), interleukins 6 (IL6), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Tissues were studied for malignant transformation with p53 and Ki67. Fibrosis in the OSMF was tested with lysyloxidase (LOX). The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SSPS) statistical software was used to analyze the data. Results: IHC staining for p16INK4ashowed positivity in the connective tissue of OSMF cases which was statistically significant. Antibody assay using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed elevated levels of secretoproteins IL6, MMP9, VEGF in OSMF cases. LOX enzyme levels were also significantly increased in OSMF cases. Proliferative markers Ki67 and p53 were positive in IHC staining in the epithelium of OSMF. Conclusion: This study confirms the presence of SF and its secreto phenotypes in OSMF and showed increased LOX expression which is implicated in fibrosis. These findings suggest that SF may contribute to fibrosis in OSMF. The study also confirms the malignant transformation of the overlying epithelium as shown by p53 and Ki67 positivity.