Emerging histological and serological biomarkers in oral squamous cell carcinoma: Applications in diagnosis, prognosis evaluation and personalized therapeutics (Review)

Abstract

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy of the oral cavity and accounts for >90% of all oral cancers. Despite advances in diagnostic procedures and therapeutic interventions, overall survival has not improved significantly in recent decades, primarily due to late diagnosis, locoregional recurrence and treatment resistance. Identifying reliable biomarkers for early detection, prognosis evaluation and treatment response prediction is critical for improving clinical outcomes in patients with OSCC. In the present review, the prognostic and predictive utility of circulating biomarkers, such as circulating tumour cells, serological biomarkers and histological and genetic biomarkers, were explored in the context of OSCC. In addition, the potential role of immune checkpoints in the treatment of OSCC was highlighted and the rapidly evolving field of liquid biopsy and its potential to revolutionize diagnosis, prognosis evaluation and treatment were examined. The existing evidence for the clinical utility of these biomarkers was critically evaluated and the challenges and limitations associated with their introduction into routine clinical practice were addressed. In conclusion, the present review highlights the promising role of biomarkers in improving the current understanding of the pathogenesis of OSCC and offers potential avenues for improving patient care through personalized medicine approaches.

Biomarker Potential of LINC00313 in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Correlation with Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Immune Cell Infiltration

“…These insights position LINC00313 as a promising candidate for therapeutic intervention and a biomarker for prognostication in HNSC management. Nevertheless, it is imperative to conduct further basic research and translate these findings into clinical settings to substantiate the therapeutic potential and validate its utility as a prognostic indicator in HNSC patients 47 .…”

Oxidative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Oral Cancer

“…With the incorporation of biomarker data, diagnostic accuracy can be improved, and personalized treatment strategies can be informed. Biomarker testing including the measurement of nitric oxide and vitamin C levels has the potential to enhance the screening and monitoring of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) [ 65 , 66 ]. These biomarkers can help in early detection, facilitating timely intervention and improving patient outcomes [ 65 ].…”

“…Biomarker testing including the measurement of nitric oxide and vitamin C levels has the potential to enhance the screening and monitoring of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) [ 65 , 66 ]. These biomarkers can help in early detection, facilitating timely intervention and improving patient outcomes [ 65 ]. However, the ideal serum biomarker for OSCC is yet to be discovered, and caution is needed in interpreting the available results [ 67 ].…”