An update on studies on etiological factors, disease progression, and malignant transformation in oral submucous fibrosis

Worldwide estimates of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) show a confinement to Indians and Southeast Asians. In India, the prevalence of OSMF has increased over the past four decades from 0.03% to 6.42%. The condition is well recognized for its malignant potential rate of 7-30%. The condition has a multifactorial etiology and may remain either stationary or become severe, leaving an individual physically challenged both physically and psychologically. Hence, the study aims at reviewing studies done on various etiological factors leading to its onset. Their analysis may serve as an adjunct in defining the broad spectrum of the causation of this potentially malignant disorder.