Research Landscape of Lymphovascular Invasion in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Bibliometric Analysis From 1994 to 2023.

The primary factor affecting tumor biology is neo-lymphangiogenesis in solid epithelial malignancies like oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Determining the impact of lymphovascular invasion is critical in order to determine OSCC's locoregional and global dissemination. Bibliometric landscapes are vital to learning about the most recent advancements in the aforementioned topic because the ongoing research in OSCC is multifaceted. This analysis can reveal the progressions that might modernize OSCC diagnosis and treatment. The present analysis has been therefore undertaken to study the relevance and effects of lymphovascular invasion in OSCC utilizing co-occurrence of keywords analysis and co-authorship analysis in the PubMed database. The keywords included "lymphovascular invasion in oral squamous cell carcinoma" using the Boolean operator (AND). A cross-sectional bibliometric analysis of full-text articles from 1994 to 2023 using VOSviewer (Version 1.6.19; Centre for Science and Technology Studies, Leiden University, The Netherlands) was performed. The data obtained was analyzed for co-occurrence and co-authorship analysis using the VOSviewer standard protocol. The query revealed 296 searches in the PubMed database. Seven clusters were found with default colors in the representation of the entire term co-occurrence network, which also displayed a total link strength of 22,262. The items were categorized into clusters based on their commonalities. The labels' weights, as determined by links and occurrences, did not depend on one another, and the co-occurrence of keywords does not imply a causal association. In the item density visualization, item labels represented individual things. The number of items from a cluster that was close to the point was represented by the weight given to its color, which was formed by combining the colors of other clusters. A network of 57 authors who matched the search parameters was discovered by the co-authorship analysis. The network visualization map displayed three clusters with a total link strength of 184. The quantity of co-authorship relationships and the number of publications did not appear to be significantly correlated. In conclusion, this investigation uncovered a sizable body of bibliometric data that emphasizes key trends and advancements in the aforementioned theme. The observed variances may be a result of the various objectives of the researchers and journals, who collaborate to provide the best possible literature dissemination.

Prognostic Relevance of Lymphatic Vessel Density in Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Oral Cavity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC), a major debilitating illness demands focus in recent times due to a constant upsurge in cases and poor prognostic implications. An urgent mandate upon finding evidence of relevant prognostic markers is the need of the hour. This systematic review and meta-analysis, therefore, elect an objective assessment of Lymphatic Vessel Density (LVD) as a pertinent parameter governing OSCC prognosis. METHODS: The study protocol was registered at the International Prospective Register Of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO). Databases were searched using the MeSH keywords for all study types following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The exposure under consideration was the evaluation of LVD in patients of OSCC. The outcome was measured as pooled Hazard/Odd's/Risk ratios in survived versus non-survived OSCC population. The risk of bias assessment was performed using the QUIPS tool. Heterogeneity was assessed by Chi-square and I2 statistics whereas publication bias was investigated using Egger's test of significance. All the statistical analysis was conducted using STATA version 13.0. RESULTS: The initial search of 226 records were screened and filtered through the inclusion and exclusion criteria to achieve an outcome of 15 studies for qualitative synthesis out of which seven studies were eligible for meta-analysis. Pooled Hazard of enhanced Lymphatic Vessel Density was not found to be statistically significant (HR = 1.98, p = 0.553); contrary to the pooled Odd's/Risk for patient survival which was statistically significant (RR = 1.33, p = 0.046). The I2 test of heterogeneity was also significant (58.8%, p = 0.046). CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis helps to generate pathfinding evidence for a noteworthy role of Lymphatic Vessel Density evaluation in suggesting OSCC prognosis.

Markers of cytotoxicity and oxidative DNA damage in Diabesity: A new age illness.

Background: The oral mucous membrane is particularly sensitive to certain types of systemic disorders such as anemia, vitamin deficiencies, infectious diseases, hormonal disturbances and can be objectively reproduced through definite measurements using cytomorphometry. Objectives: The objective of the study is to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative changes in cytological buccal smears of obese individuals with type II diabetes (Group 1 = 20), obese individuals without type II diabetes (Group 2 = 20), individuals with type II diabetes without obesity (Group 3 = 20) by comparing with controls (individuals without obesity and without type II diabetes) (Group 4 = 20). Materials and Methods: Buccal mucosal cells were scraped from study participants and were subjected to morphometric analysis (Magnus Pro software). Clinical history, hemoglobin A1c, heights and weights of participants were measured and consequently, their body mass index was calculated. Quantitative parameters (nuclear area, cytoplasmic area, nucleo-cytoplasmic ratio) and qualitative parameters (micronuclei [MN], nuclear budding, nuclear disintegration, apoptosis, necrosis) were assessed among the groups. The data were statistically interpreted using SPSS software version 20.0. Results: There is an increase in nuclear diameter and nuclear: cytoplasmic ratio of Groups 1 and 3 relative to Group 2. The qualitative assessment revealed MN and nuclear disintegration in Group 1 and 3 individuals. In addition, other qualitative changes such as nuclear budding and apoptotic bodies were evident in patients with type II diabetes. Conclusion: The aforementioned qualitative and quantitative parameters facilitate early diagnosis and identification of individuals at risk of developing new age systemic illnesses such as diabetes and obesity.

Concurrent dentigerous cyst with ossifying fibroma of the mandible.

Dentigerous cyst (DC) and ossifying fibroma (OF) are intraosseous lesions of the jaw. Both are varied pathological entities with a wide spectrum of clinical and histological features along with distinct treatment plan and prognosis. While OF comes under fibro-osseous lesions of the jaws, DC is a developmental odontogenic cyst which is formed by the accumulation of fluid between reduced enamel epithelium and enamel or between layers of the enamel organ. This case report presents a rare display of two distinct pathologies synchronously and aims to discuss the possible histogenesis for the same.

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex with Gingival Enlargement in an Adolescent.

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an autosomal dominant, multisystem genetic disorder. It is characterised by formation of benign hamartomas, neurofibromas, and angiofibromas located in different organs. We describe a case of a 13-year boy who complained of gingival enlargement. Clinical examination showed distinctive dermatological signs like hypopigmented macules, shagreen plaques, miliary fibromas, fibrous plaques and multiple angiofibromas. Oral manifestation included localised gingival enlargement. Gingivectomy was performed and the excised tissue was submitted for histopathological examination. The microscopic examination of gingival tissue revealed multiple bundles of collagen fibres with proliferating fibroblast and multiple proliferating blood vessels in the connective tissue. The clinical and histopathological findings were consistent with gingival angiofibromas of TSC. Gingivectomy allowed the patient to have better function and aesthetics. Periodontal examination in conjunction with dermatological examination is important for early diagnosis of TSC.

Dermatoglyphic findings in dental caries and their correlation with salivary levels of Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus in school-going children in and around Moradabad.

INTRODUCTION: Dental caries is the disease of the calcified tissues of the teeth resulting from the action of microorganisms on carbohydrates characterized by a decalcification of inorganic portion of the tooth and accomplished or followed by disintegration of organic portion. Genetic susceptibility to dental caries is dependent on certain factors, which, if evaluated, can help in estimating disease situation prematurely. Dermatoglyphics are the genetically determined dermal ridge configurations on the digits, palms and soles, influenced by environmental forces that are operating before birth. Hence, the study was undertaken to establish a possible link between dental caries and dermatoglyphics and to determine whether specific dermatoglyphic patterns exist which help in predicting the occurrence of dental caries. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The dermatoglyphics of 50 caries free (CF) and 50 individuals with dental caries (WDC) were taken and compared with the microbial levels of Streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli, and results were evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Analysis was done using P value, Chi-square test and Student's t-test. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) Whorl pattern was more common in individuals WDC (P < 0.0001) as compared to the CF individuals who exhibited more loop pattern (P = 0.002). (2) Whorl pattern had significant association with the microbial counts of S. mutans (P = 0.383) and Lactobacillus (P = 0.015) with no such statistically significant correlation with loop pattern in the disease group. (3) ≤6 loops was a good predictor of caries. ≥4 whorls was a moderate predictor of caries.

Comparative efficacy of chemiluminescence and toluidine blue in the detection of potentially malignant and malignant disorders of the oral cavity.

CONTEXT: Early detection of oral cancer is of paramount importance in determining the prognosis of oral cancer. Literature suggests that several diagnostic modalities have been proposed to aid a clinician in early detection of oral cancer without much conclusive evidence. AIMS: The present study aims to compare toluidine blue and chemiluminescence screening methods in early detection of carcinoma in North Indian population and also to evaluate these methods with histopathological diagnosis. METHODS: In this prospective study, 42 patients with clinically visible premalignant lesions were included. Demographic data were collected, and suspicious lesions were examined by chemiluminescence light (Vizilite) and followed by local application of toluidine blue (Mashberg's recommendation). Findings were recorded for each lesion under standard incandescent light as positive or negative. Biopsy and histopathological analysis of the tissues were performed. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values for the chemiluminescence technique and toluidine blue were calculated for diagnostic tests. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, toluidine blue test was found to be moderately sensitive (63.33%) whereas chemiluminescence test (Vizilite) was found to be highly sensitive (90%); however, the test has limited specificity (50%). Thus, the study concluded that both toluidine blue and Vizilite can be used as an adjunct to simple, conventional visual examination and in screening procedure for oral potentially malignant disorders.

Disinfection of dentinal tubules with 2% Chlorhexidine gel, Calcium hydroxide and herbal intracanal medicaments against Enterococcus faecalis: An in-vitro study.

AIM: This in vitro study was conducted to evaluate the disinfection of dentinal tubules using 2% Chlorhexidine gel, Honey, Aloe vera gel, Curcuma longa, Propolis gel and Calcium hydroxide against Enterococcus faecalis. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Two hundred and ten human mandibular first premolars were infected with Enterococcus faecalis for 21 days. Samples were divided into 7 groups. Group I- Saline (negative control), Group II- 2% Chlorhexidine gel(CHX), Group III- honey, Group IV- Aloe vera gel, Group V- 20% Curcuma longa gel, Group VI- Propolis gel and Group VII -Calcium hydroxide (CH). At the end of 1, 3 and 5 days, the antimicrobial efficacy of medicaments against E.faecalis was assessed at the depths of 200µm and 400µm. RESULTS: 2% Chlorhexidine gel was most effective followed by Propolis and Curcuma longa. CONCLUSION: 2% Chlorhexidine gel gave the best results. Among the herbal extracts Propolis and Curcuma longa hold a promising future but to implement their use as sole intracanal medicaments clinically, further in vivo and long term studies are warranted.

Evaluation of histomorphometric changes in tissue architecture due to fixation delay.

INTRODUCTION: All good tissue specimen preparations require complete fixation. The process of tissue handling and processing from patient to paraffin block is too frequently invisible to the pathologists. Many times due to certain emergencies or unavailability of a proper fixative, tissues are kept in different carrying media such as normal saline (NS) or local anesthetic till the availability of a proper fixative solution. This fixation delay can lead to various tissue architectural changes which can affect its diagnostic value. AIMS: The aim of this study was to assess sectioning ability, staining intensity and microscopic details of tissues kept in different carrying media at different time intervals followed by standard fixation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fresh tissue specimen, i.e., goat tongue was collected and its middle portion was retained and was used for study purpose. The tissue was grossed and kept in various carrying media for five different time intervals. Standard formaldehyde fixation was then carried out followed by sectioning and staining. The sections were evaluated histologically under light microscope. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: For sectioning parameter, Fisher's exact test and for staining and microscopic details, Mann-Whitney U-test was used. RESULTS: According to the study, NS is considered as a best carrying media followed by 10% honey and local anesthetic. Two percent hydrogen peroxide cannot be used as a carrying media. CONCLUSION: It was concluded that NS should be given first preference as a carrying media till the availability of a suitable fixative. Clinicians and Pathologists should have to familiarize themselves with the advantages and disadvantages of using various carrying media and the histomorphometric changes associated with delayed fixation which may lead to incorrect diagnosis.

Image analysis assisted study of mitotic figures in oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma using differential stains.

BACKGROUND: Mitosis is a process of cell division resulting in two genetically equivalent daughter cells. Excessive proliferation of cells due to mitosis is the hallmark in pre cancer and cancer. AIMS: This study was conducted to count the number of mitotic figures in normal oral mucosa, oral epithelial dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma in both Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Crystal Violet stained sections. Also the overall number of mitotic figures with both stains were compared along with the evaluation of staining efficacy of both the stains. METHODS AND MATERIAL: The present study was conducted on 20 specimens each of the three categories. These were further divided into two groups for staining with H&E and with 1% Crystal Violet respectively. Images were captured and analyzed using image analysis software Dewinter Biowizard 4.1. RESULTS: Comparison of mitotic figure count in three categories in sections stained with both stains showed statistically significant difference (p < 0.001). The mean number of mitotic figures seen in Crystal Violet reagent were significantly higher as seen in H&E stain (p < 0.001). The overall diagnostic efficacy of Crystal Violet was 87.6%. Crystal Violet scored over H&E stain and also helped to better appreciate metaphases in Squamous cell carcinoma and telophases in dysplasia. CONCLUSION: Number of mitotic figures progressively increase with the advancement of the pathology. Use of 1% Crystal Violet provides better appreciation of mitotic figures and can be employed as a selective stain in routine histopathology.

Evaluation of Histomorphometric Changes in Tissue Architecture in Relation to Alteration in Fixation Protocol - An Invitro Study.

INTRODUCTION: Preparation of good tissue specimens for microscopy requires complete fixation. No ideal fixative has been found till date, with every fixative showing advantages and disadvantages. Appropriate fixation is required to maintain clear and consistent morphologic features for histologic examination. Pathologists mostly examine formalin fixed tissue sections and are less used to the morphologic changes induced by other fixatives. Underfixed and overfixed tissue in various fixatives can lead to tissue architectural changes which can affect its diagnostic value. AIM: To assess sectioning ability, staining intensity and microscopic details of tissues kept in different fixatives at different time intervals. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fresh tissue specimen i.e., goat tongue was collected and its middle-third portion was used for the study purpose. The tissue was grossed into 10 equal pieces and kept in various fixatives (10% Buffered formalin, Carnoy's solution, Absolute ethyl alcohol, Bouin's fluid) for five different time intervals (6, 12, 18, 24 and 30 hours) and normal tissue processing steps were carried out followed by sectioning and staining. During sectioning, sectioning parameter was assessed. Following sectioning, sections were observed under light microscope and were histologically evaluated for staining and microscopic details. To calculate the sectioning parameter Fisher's exact test was used and to assess parameters for staining and microscopic details Mann-Whitney U test was used. RESULTS: According to the study, 10% buffered formaldehyde is considered as a superior fixative under all parameters followed by Bouin's fluid, Carnoy's solution and Absolute alcohol. CONCLUSION: In our study, it was concluded that 10% buffered formaldehyde should be continued as a routine fixative however, other fixatives can be used depending upon the non-availability of required fixative or in case of emergencies. Pathologist should be accustomed to histologic and morphologic changes of underfixed and overfixed tissue which can affect its diagnostic value.

Analysis of the Genotoxic Effects of Mobile Phone Radiation using Buccal Micronucleus Assay: A Comparative Evaluation.

INTRODUCTION: Micronucleus (MN) is considered to be a reliable marker for genotoxic damage and it determines the presence and the extent of the chromosomal damage. The MN is formed due to DNA damage or chromosomal disarrangements. The MN has a close association with cancer incidences. In the new era, mobile phones are constantly gaining popularity specifically in the young generation, but this device uses radiofrequency radiation that may have a possible carcinogenic effect. The available reports related to the carcinogenic effect of mobile radiation on oral mucosa are contradictory. AIM: To explore the effects of mobile phone radiation on the MN frequency in oral mucosal cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The subjects were divided into two major groups: low mobile phone users and high mobile phone users. Subjects who used their mobile phone since less than five years and less than three hours a week comprised of the first group and those who used their mobile since more than five years and more than 10 hours a week comprised of the second group. Net surfing and text messaging was not considered in this study. Exfoliated buccal mucosal cells were collected from both the groups and the cells were stained with DNA-specific stain acridine orange. Thousand exfoliated buccal mucosal cells were screened and the cells which were positive for micronuclei were counted. The micronucleus frequency was represented as mean±SD, and unpaired Student t-test was used for intergroup comparisons. RESULTS: The number of micronucleated cells/ 1000 exfoliated buccal mucosal cells was found to be significantly increased in high mobile phone users group than the low mobile phone users group. The use of mobile phone with the associated complaint of warmth around the ear showed a maximum increase in the number of micronucleated cells /1000 exfoliated buccal mucosal cells. CONCLUSION: Mobile phone radiation even in the permissible range when used for longer duration causes significant genotoxicity. The genotoxicity can be avoided to some extent by the regular use of headphones.

Epigenetics: A possible answer to the undeciphered etiopathogenesis and behavior of oral lesions.

Much controversy has existed over the etiopathogenesis and management of oral lesions, especially oral malignancies. The knowledge of genetic basis is proving to be inadequate in the light of emerging new mechanisms termed epigenetic phenomena. The present review article aims to understand the role of epigenetic mechanisms in oral lesions. Epigenetics is the study of acquired changes in chromatin structure that arise independently of a change in the underlying deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) nucleotide sequence. Key components involved in epigenetic regulation are DNA methylation, histone modifications and modifications in micro ribonucleic acids (miRNA). Epigenetics is a reversible system that can be affected by various environmental factors such as diet, drugs, mental stress, physical activity and addictive substances such as tobacco, nicotine and alcohol. Epigenetics may also play a role in explaining the etiopathogenesis of developmental anomalies, genetic defects, cancer as well as substance addiction (tobacco, cigarette and alcohol). Epigenetic modifications may contribute to aberrant epigenetic mechanisms seen in oral precancers and cancers. In the near future, epigenetic variations found in oral dysplastic cells can act as a molecular fingerprint for malignancies. The literature in English language was searched and a structured scientific review and meta-analysis of scientific publications from the year 2000 to year 2015 was carried out from various journals. It was observed that epigenetic marks can prove to be novel markers for early diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of oral cancers as well as other oral diseases.

Root and canal morphology of maxillary first premolar teeth in north Indian population using clearing technique: An in vitro study.

AIM: The purpose of this study was to determine the root form and canal configuration in maxillary first premolars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 250 extracted human adult maxillary first premolar teeth from North Indian population were collected. Access cavities were prepared and the coronal pulp tissue was extirpated. The samples were stored in 5% nitric acid solution for 5 days. They were then rinsed, dried, and dehydrated using increasing concentrations of ethanol (70, 80, and 95%) successively for 1 day. Teeth were rendered transparent by immersing in methyl salicylate. India ink was then injected. The root canal morphology was examined under stereomicroscope. RESULT: 53.6% were single rooted followed by fused root form followed by two root form. 0.4% had three rooted maxillary first premolar. Variable root canal configurations were also found. Type IV configuration was most prevalent (33.2%). Two teeth showed an additional configuration. Lateral canals were present in 34.8% of the samples and intercanal communications in 16%. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that in North Indian population, there was an increased propensity for types IV, I, II, and III canal morphologies in maxillary first premolars. Single root form was most common.

Training module for cheiloscopy and palatoscopy in forensic odontology.

INTRODUCTION: Studies of lip prints and palatal rugae, dates back to late 19(th) and early 20(th) centuries and since then, various methods of classification and analysis were introduced, however systematic recording and analysis of data is still need to improve further, to arrive at flawless and meaningful conclusions. Moreover, the awareness among dental personnel regarding the practical knowledge of cheiloscopy and palatoscopy is ambiguous. So, efforts have been made to introduce training module to improve the education of cheiloscopy and palatoscopy for dental students. AIMS AND OBJECTIVE: 1. To prepare training module for cheiloscopy and palatoscopy. 2. To assess the efficacy of designed training module. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Training module was used to train the dental students. Random matching of lip and palatal rugae patterns was carried out by dental students before and after training. Pre- and post-training matched results were then compared. Intraobserver variability assessed by comparing first and second assessment of lip print and palatal rugae patterns. RESULTS: It was inferred statistically that training module had improved the ability to identify individuals based on lip prints and palatal rugae, with insignificant intraobserver variation.

Estimation of serum ß2-microglobulin in potentially malignant disorders and squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity: A clinicopathological study.

BACKGROUND: Tumor markers are substances, which quantitatively changes in serum, during the tumor development, one such tumor marker is serum ß2-microglobulin (ß2-m). The aim of this study was to establish the role of ß2-m as a biochemical parameter for diagnosis and prognosis of oral carcinoma by estimation of serum ß2-m levels in potentially malignant lesions, conditions, and oral squamous cell carcinoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was carried out on 48 subjects (16 control, 8 oral submucous fibrosis, 8 oral leukoplakia, and 16 oral squamous cell carcinoma patients of different stages), conducted at department of Oral Medicine, Kothiwal Dental College, Moradabad, India. Under aseptic precautions, 5 ml venous blood was drawn and serum was separated. Estimation of ß2-m level in serum was carried out by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The data were analyzed by using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS 17.0) software. Cases and controls were tested for statistical significance with one-way ANOVA with post-hoc Tukey's HSD. Values of P < 0.05 were considered significant. RESULTS: The mean serum ß2-m level in the control group was 1.173 ± 0.059, in potentially malignant lesions/conditions group was 1.688 ± 0.137 and in oral squamous cell carcinoma group was 2.835 ± 0.0313. This progressive increase in serum ß2-m level was found to be highly significant (P value < 0.001). Results of Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed ß2-m as a 100% sensitive and specific biomarker for oral squamous cell carcinoma. CONCLUSION: The present study establishes ß2-m as a specific biological tumor marker for diagnostic and prognostic evaluation of oral squamous cell carcinoma.

Exploring trends in forensic odontology.

BACKGROUND: Forensic odontology nowadays has become a developing science and is of great importance to society. It is important that dental practitioners should have a proper knowledge of forensics as the need has increased greatly over the last decades due to the unprecedented demand from the criminal justice including terrorism in Kashmir valley (J&K India). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data was collected based on questionnaire survey among qualified dental practitioners related to their awareness of forensic odontology. RESULTS: A total number of 235 dental practitioners responded to the questionnaire. RESULTS showed that there was a low confidence, in handling of forensic odontology related cases among dental practitioners and majority of dental practitioners were not having any formal training in forensic odontology. CONCLUSION: Each dental practitioner has a responsibility to understand the forensic implications associated with the practice of his profession and thus he should work sincerely enough so to ensure his contribution in the field of forensic odontology.

Use of Curcuma longa L. extract to stain various tissue samples for histological studies.

BACKGROUND: Curcuma longa L. is a perennial herb and a member of the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family, which is used extensively in foods as well as in Ayurvedic and Chinese systems of medicine. Current researches have focused on its antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic and antimicrobial properties. Until now, very few studies suggested its role as a histological stain. AIM: To ascertain its efficacy to be used as a counterstain after hematoxylin, to compare it's staining ability with that of routinely used eosin dye and also to ascertain its role in various collagen diseases. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Turmeric rhizomes were cut into small pieces and were dried. These dried turmeric rhizomes were milled to form fine powder, which was then processed to form dye for staining tissue structures. RESULTS: It revealed that turmeric can be used as a counterstain after hematoxylin, its staining ability was also good and comparable to that of eosin dye with a special affinity for collagen and muscle fibers. CONCLUSION: Turmeric dye can be used as a histological stain, which stains similar to eosin dye and its specific affinity for collagen and muscle fibers authenticates its role in the treatment of collagen and muscle disorders.

Minor salivary glands and dental caries: Approach towards a new horizon.

INTRODUCTION: Reduction of functioning minor salivary glands may contribute to emergence of mucosal infections, mucosal ulceration, and possibly dental caries. A study was, therefore, designed to understand the exact role of minor salivary gland secretions over dental caries. METHODOLOGY: We studied the average labial distribution of functional minor salivary glands using various pre-defined locations, counted the minor salivary gland secretion imprints, and correlated the decayed missing filledlevels in subjects. The functional level and amount of secretion of minor salivary gland were evaluated. The radial immunodiffusion was performed by Diffu-Plate kit and the dimensions of the ring were correlated with the amount of immunoglobulin A in saliva. RESULTS: The mean number of functional labial minor salivary glands, amount of secretion, level of glycoprotein secretion, and immunoglobulin A secretion levels could very well dictate the functional status and role of minor salivary glands over caries assessment. CONCLUSION: The above-mentioned tests could be of major significance in routine diagnosis of the most common oral disease, i.e., dental caries.