Biomarkers in diagnosis and therapy of oral squamous cell carcinoma: A review of the literature

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) represents the sixth most common cancer, accounting for 2-4% of all malignancies worldwide. The overall survival rate of less than 60% remains generally poor, with prognosis heavily relying on the TNM staging system. Tumor size as well as the presence and extent of lymph node metastases are widely recognized as the most important predictors. However, the underlying mechanisms that lead to an aggressive phenotype are not yet fully understood. Therefore, possible biomarkers are much in need to predict prognosis, to help individualize therapy approaches, and to overcome possible resistance mechanisms.

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