Evaluation of the salivary zinc assay as a potential diagnostic tool in potential malignant and malignant lesions of the oral cavity

Abstract

Introduction: Recently, trace elements are receiving much attention in the detection of oral cancer and potentially malignant disorders, as they are found to be significantly altered in the head and neck, lung, and breast carcinomas. Undoubtedly, by early diagnosis of potentially malignant lesions based on the values of micronutrients, the occurrence of cancers may be decreased. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the salivary levels of zinc (Zn) in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and oral leukoplakia (OL). Materials and Methods: The study subjects included histopathologically confirmed cases of OL and OSCC with age and sex-matched healthy controls, reporting to the Department of Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, Tishreen University from January 2017 to July 2019. The subjects were asked to spit in a graduated container every 1 min till 5 mL of saliva was obtained. Levels of Zn were estimated by standard spectrophotometric methods in accordance with the underlying validated principles using the kits from Medichem, Germany. Settings and Design: This study is a randomized clinical trial. Statistical Analysis Used: ANOVA and Chi-square'' test. Results: There was a highly significant decrease in the level of salivary Zn in patients with OSCC when compared to OL patients and controls (P < 0.05). Salivary Zn levels were decreased in OL patients when compared to controls. However, the difference was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Salivary Zn could be used as a biomarker for OSCC and OL.

Keywords

• leukoplakia
• oral squamous cell carcinoma
• saliva
• zinc