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.

Keywords: biomarkers; histological markers; microRNA; oral cavity; serological biomarkers; squamous cell carcinoma.

Figure 1.

Overview of the main biomarkers currently explored in oral squamous cell carcinoma and their potential uses. PD-L1, programmed death-ligand 1; EGFR, epidermal growth factor receptor; CEA, carcinoembryonic antigen; VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor; CA-125, cancer antigen 125; CYFRA 21-1, cytokeratin 19 fragment antigen.