Efficacy of Autofluorescence in Detection of Tobacco-associated Oral Mucosal Lesions - A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: This study was conducted with the aim to systematically review the efficacy of autofluorescence in the detection of tobacco-associated oral mucosal lesions. Objectives and Data Sources: Clinical studies with patients that focused on the autofluorescence method in the detection, visualisation, or management of tobacco-associated oral mucosal lesions were included in the literature search across bibliographic databases. Results: Autofluorescence visualisation showed positive results, with high sensitivity scores when compared with the gold standard of histopathology in the clinical evaluation of common tobacco-associated oral mucosal lesions. However, the low specificity values indicate its limited ability to distinguish between dysplasia and other benign conditions. Conclusions and Implications: This review provides promising evidence for the application of autofluorescence in the detection of tobacco-associated oral mucosal lesions where autofluorescence is used in conjunction with conventional examination with the gold standard of histopathological examination. Registration number: PROSPERO 2023 CRD42023442292.