Application ofIn VivoStain of Methylene Blue as a Diagnostic Aid in the Early Detection and Screening of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Precancer Lesions

Abstract

Background: 

Early detection of oral malignant or precancerous lesion by screening individuals with high-risk factors may identify candidates who should receive treatment to prevent cancer progression and reduce patient mortality. Among the diagnostic tools, in vivo staining is advocated as a simple, inexpensive, and fairly sensitive method.

Methods: 

The present study involved the examination of fifty-eight patients suspected of having oral malignant or precancerous lesions by methylene blue staining. The results of methylene blue uptake were compared with a simultaneous biopsy of these lesions. The pathologically confirmed precancers and cancers were the positive targets of this screening, while benign epithelial lesions were sorted as negative subjects of screening.

Results: 

The results revealed sensitivity of 90%, specificity of 69%, positive predictive value of 74%, and negative predictive value of 87%.

Conclusion: 

We consider that methylene blue staining is a useful diagnostic adjunct in a large, community-based oral cancer screening program for high-risk individuals.