Malignant conversion of oral submucous fibrosis in surgically treated case

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is an insidious chronic disease affecting any part of the oral cavity and sometimes the pharynx with epithelial atrophy leading to stiffness of the oral mucosa, causing trismus and inability to eat. However a more serious complication of this disease is the risk of the development of oral carcinoma. We reported the histopathologically proven case of OSMF with initial interincisal mouth opening 2mm which was treated surgically with nasolabial flap technique but failed to follow up and could not do active mouth opening exercises. Malignant conversion of OSMF was seen in this case. This is required to assess the progress and evaluate any malignant transformation at the earliest. So, the importance of active co-operation and frequent follow up cannot be overemphasized. The purpose of this study is to emphasize the importance of regular follow up and frequent biopsies to facilitate oral examination and to check any malignant conversion after the surgery.