Quantum leap in the diagnosis of oral potentially malignant disorders - A review of literature.

Early diagnosis of oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) can bring about considerable improvement in reducing the statistics related to morbidity and mortality associated with oral cancer. The objective of this review was to summarize advanced diagnostic aids used for OPMDs. Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials electronic databases from 1969 to 2022 focus on advanced diagnostic techniques for potentially malignant disorders. An electronic database was searched for keywords: "Potentially malignant disorders", "Early diagnostic aids", advanced diagnostic aids in oral PMDs, precancerous lesions, precancerous conditions, diagnosis of potentially malignant disorders, and artificial intelligence in oral cancer. A total of 42 studies met inclusion and exclusion criteria. The mean standard deviation (σ) was calculated as 3.129 and specificity and sensitivity were obtained at a confidence interval (CI) of 95%. The pooled value for sensitivity and specificity of each modality of diagnostic aid was calculated. In conclusion, advanced diagnostic techniques would be very useful in the early detection of OPMDs. It is important for dentists and dental practitioners to be well versed in all available techniques of diagnosis. Implementation of early diagnostic aids at a larger screening platform could be beneficial in overcoming the cost factor involved and may improve the probability burden of oral cancer-related mortality.