Stromal response in different histological grades of oral squamous cell carcinoma: a histochemical study

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study is to evaluate the connective tissue changes in different grades of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC's) and the influence of these changes in predicting the biological behavior of these tumors.

Materials and methods: A total of 39 cases of OSCC's and 6 sections of controls were examined using seven connective tissue special histochemical stains.

Results: Staining intensity of collagen, reticulin, acid mucins, fibrin, glycoproteins, sulfated mucins, elastic fibers around the tumor islands and within the connective tissue was observed.

Conclusions: Tumor cells which grow progressively in the host stroma have the capacity to pre-empt and subvert the response of host, which is essential for their growth and spread.

Clinical relevance: The reactive changes in the tumor stroma may alter the biological aggressiveness of oral cancer, and by incorporating this concept into a prognostic system, we may help to reflect the biologic diversity of oral cancer and predict its clinical outcomes.