Oral squamous cell carcinoma: An epidemiological and descriptive study of 29 cases.

Background: Oral cancer is one of the diseases with the highest morbidity and mortality worldwide and knowledge of diagnostic techniques, treatment modalities in different populations and preventive measures are extremely important. The use of tobacco and alcoholic beverages increases the risk for development of this neoplasm.

Objective: This retrospective study was done evaluating the cases of squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed at an oral diagnosis specialized care center (CAEDO) during 2 years.

Material and methods: The records of 29 patients diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma were analyzed considering the age, patient´s gender, lesion site in oral cavity, the use of tobacco and alcohol, the characteristics of the lesions and treatment performed.

Results: A higher incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma was observed in males in the proportion of 2:1. The mean age was 64 years and most patients were tobacco and / or alcohol users. Third four lesion sites were detected and the tongue was the most affected site, corresponding to 51.7% of all cases.

Conclusion: The dental surgeon must be able to recognize a neoplasm and attention should be made to male patients aged over 40, especially those with tobacco and alcohol use.