BUCCAL MUCOSA CANCER IN SOUTH INDIA

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Abstract
Tobacco is probably the principal, but not sole carcinogen in the development of betel quid cancer of the buccal mucosa. The evidence for direct contact as an important cofactor is suggested by the findings of a high incidence at specific mucosal sites generally used for lodgement of the quid. The left side is significantly more frequently involved than the right side. The tumors occur in females as often as in males. The patients generally present with advanced lesions. Skin ulceration, trismus, mandibular destruction and even pathological fractures of the mandible are frequent findings. The lesions can be classified by the T.N.M. [tumor, node, metastasis] system. Although the degree of local invasion is high, lymph node metastases appear late and remain regional. These cases appear suitable for clinical trials with chemotherapeutic agents, irradiation, and surgery.