Oral submucous fibrosis: an etiological dilemma.

OBJECTIVE: Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSF), is a well-recognized, oral potentially malignant disorder predominantly affecting the South- Asian countries. OSF causes unique generalized fibrosis of the submucosal oral soft tissues, resulting in marked rigidity of the oral mucosa leading to progressive inability to open the mouth, rigidity of lips and difficulty in protruding the tongue. In this review we have discussed the multifactorial etiology of this potentially malignant disorder, including Chillies, Nutritional Deficiencies, Inducible nitric oxide synthsis (iNOS), genetic and immunological predisposition; and most importantly the role of areca nut and the effect of copper content in it.

Takayasu's arteritis--report of a case with masquerading jaw pain.

Takayasu's arteritis (TA) often referred to as pulseless disease, is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the aorta and its main branches. While the first reported case was documented in Japan in 1908, it does occur worldwide, but is more prevalent in young oriental females from China and Southeast Asia. The main complications of the disease are due to occlusion of major branches of the aorta. During the initial stages, one of the presenting symptoms may be jaw pain. This may prove to be a diagnostic challenge for the dentist, since many diseases cause orofacial pain and the diagnosis must be established before final treatment. A literature review of TA is presented along with clinical presentation and treatment modalities. A case report is also presented.