Inhibition of microflora associated with oral malignancy.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Oncology
• Oral Medicine

Background:

• Oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC) can harbor complex microflora, leading to infections.
• Anticancer treatments impair oral mucosa defenses, promoting biofilm proliferation with yeast and bacteria.
• Biofilm on OSCC surfaces contributes to patient morbidity and complicates treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of Meridol mouthrinse in inhibiting the biofilm on oral squamous cell carcinoma surfaces.
• To assess the impact of Meridol on aerobic and anaerobic bacterial counts in OSCC lesions.
• To evaluate patient tolerance and subjective symptom changes during the intervention.

Main Methods:

• Biofilm samples were collected from 10 OSCC patients before treatment.
• Patients were randomly assigned to rinse with Meridol (amine fluoride) or placebo (saline) for 7 days, three times daily.
• Microbiological analysis involved culturing samples to determine aerobic and anaerobic bacterial counts (CFU/ml).

Main Results:

• Meridol mouthrinse significantly reduced median counts of both aerobic and anaerobic bacteria on OSCC surfaces compared to baseline (p=0.025 and p=0.011, respectively).
• Placebo rinsing showed no significant difference in bacterial counts.
• Patients reported reduced burning sensation and bad breath, with no mucosal irritation observed.

Conclusions:

• Seven-day Meridol rinsing effectively reduces the surface biofilm on oral carcinoma lesions.
• Meridol mouthrinse is well-tolerated and may help reduce patient morbidity and improve quality of life.
• Direct antimicrobial treatment of ulcerated OSCC lesions, in addition to routine hygiene, is recommended.