DNA-ploidy rates in oral leukoplakias determined by flow-cytometry

In 11 patients with histologically confirmed benign (n = 4) precancerous (n = 7) oral leukoplakias, the nuclear DNA distribution patterns were analyzed by flow-cytometry. In two of three precancerous lesions exhibiting severe dysplasia, monoclonal hyperdiploid (aneuploid) cell populations were demonstrated. Aneuploidy was not observed in early or moderate dysplasias. To fully assess the diagnostic significance of flow cytometry in oral premalignancies, a larger quantity of specimens must be examined.