Source: www.dentalnewspk.com
Author: DN Monitoring Desk

Researchers at the University of Surrey have achieved a significant medical breakthrough by creating a non-invasive diagnostic test for oral cancer. Known as PANDORA, this pioneering test has shown exceptional accuracy in identifying patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and pre-cancerous oral epithelial dysplasia (OED).

As per the groundbreaking study detailing the development of PANDORA, published in the esteemed Journal of Oral Pathology and Medicine, with an impressive accuracy rate of over 92 percent, the proof-of-concept test has the potential to revolutionise oral cancer diagnosis.

It says PANDORA also exhibits an outstanding accuracy rate of more than 80pc in detecting patients with OED, offering an opportunity for early intervention and preventive measures.

The research team conducted their study by collecting cell samples from 40 individuals with OSCC and OED, as well as 79 individuals without cancer, including those with benign lesions. Using the state-of-the-art DEPtech 3DEP analyzer with a unique setup protocol, the researchers meticulously measured and analyzed the cells from the patients. Importantly, these samples can be easily collected at a dentist’s office and sent for analysis, making PANDORA a convenient and accessible diagnostic tool for primary care settings.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is a prevalent form of cancer that affects the cells lining the mouth and throat, often associated with lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, and alcohol use. Symptoms may include persistent mouth sores, difficulty swallowing, and changes in speech. Early detection of OSCC significantly improves treatment outcomes, while late-stage diagnosis tends to result in a poor survival rate.

Similarly, oral epithelial dysplasia is a precancerous condition characterised by abnormal changes in the shape, size, and arrangement of mouth lining cells, typically caused by smoking, alcohol use, or poor oral hygiene. Identifying and monitoring individuals with OED is crucial as it can develop into oral cancer over time, highlighting the importance of timely interventions.

This breakthrough promises to have a profound impact on oral cancer diagnosis, facilitating early detection and potentially saving countless lives.

The non-invasive nature of the test and its applicability in primary care settings provide hope for improved oral healthcare worldwide.