Oral Sub Mucous Fibrosis (OSMF): Premalignant Threat to Humanity with Special Reference to India

Oral sub mucous fibrosis that leads to the limitation of mouth opening is an uncommon disease affecting a large population in Asian countries especially in Indian subcontinent. The main cause of the disease is excessive consumption of products such as Gutkha, pan masala, khaini, mava etc. made of Areca nut and other tobacco. Several case studies are reported from a large portion of India. However, a proper mechanism and treatment is very limited for this premalignant condition. The review emphasizes towards the basic etiology and treatment aspects with special reference to the case studies reported in India.