The use of oral and maxillofacial pathology services by general pathologists and their attitude towards it in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives:To investigate the awareness and usage of oral and maxillofacial pathology (OMFP) subspecialty services among pathologists in Saudi Arabia.Methods:In this cross-sectional study, we conducted an electronic questionnaire survey of pathologists in all regions of Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted between July 2015 and August 2016. The questionnaire comprised 19 questions to evaluate the knowledge of pathologists regarding microscopic OMFP and their perceptions towards this subspecialty.Results:Most of the pathologists surveyed (94.6%) were aware of the OMFP subspecialty and its scope of practice. Although most of the pathologists recognized the importance and need of this subspecialty, 70% of them never referred or consulted an oral pathologist as they either diagnosed the cases themselves or did not know any oral pathologist (57.7%). The pathologists had the greatest difficulty in identifying and diagnosing odontogenic tumors, salivary gland tumors, and odontogenic cysts.Conclusion:Pathologists are aware of the OMFP subspecialty, but their utilization of the services offered by OMFP specialists in Saudi Arabia is quite low despite the strong demand for OMFP services.

Questionnaire-based survey regarding the opinion of general pathologists on the need for oral pathology services

“…[ 4 ] On the other hand, Binmadi and Almazrooa reported in their study that only 32.4% of the pathologists were prepared to consider hiring an OMFP specialist at their department. [ 3 ] Our survey also showed only 30% referrals to OMFP specialists, which was also the case in a survey conducted by Binmadi NO. Barret and Speight have reported a slightly larger number of referrals in their study.…”

“…Mudaliar et al in India (Mumbai), on the other hand, have reported lower percentages for the same in their study. [ 3 4 5 ] These differences, as highlighted by studies, could be due to differences in the training methods and curriculum related to the specialty of oral pathology. Hence, generating interest among the students toward the specialty by implementing new ideas in the curriculum in a constructive manner is needed.…”

“…However, the head and neck lesions were the third most erroneously diagnosed lesions due to a shortage of experience and insufficient exposure to these pathologies. [ 3 ] Despite papers that have highlighted the importance of oral pathology services, there are currently no published data on the use of such services by general pathologists in India. This survey aimed to determine the extent to which individual pathologists are aware of oral pathology as a specialist discipline and whether they perceive a need to use oral pathologists to help identify oral lesions during diagnostic challenges.…”

Clinical patterns, causes, and treatment of torus palatinus

“…Evidence shows that these lesions usually progress slowly, and a spontaneous growth stop is usually another characteristic. 1,2 Affected patients are usually asymptomatic. However, symptoms might be reported in edentulous patients and cases when the lesion is huge.…”

The state of Oral Medicine and Oral Pathology in the Arab Middle East

“…It is important to note, that the reason that OMFS is the only recognized dental specialty by the ABHS is likely due to the lack of awareness of the need of OM and OP services. Moreover, despite an increasing demand for OP specialists, a recent study concluded that there is a low utilization of OP services in Saudi Arabia, even when general pathologists were aware of oral pathologists and the specialty ( Binmadi and Almazrooa, 2017 ).…”