Potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity and oral dysplasia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of malignant transformation rate by subtype

Potentially malignant disorders of the oral cavity (OPMD) are a heterogeneous group of lesions associated with a variable risk of malignant transformation (MT) to invasive cancer. Leukoplakia (LE), lichen planus (LP), oral lichenoid lesions (OLL), oral erythroplakia (OE), oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), and proliferative verrucous leukoplakia (PVL) are among the most common of these lesions. Oral dysplasia is a mucosal area characterized by cellular and architectural derangement, which may be associated with OPMDs or not.

To define the MT rate of OPMDs and the risk of development into cancer of mild vs moderate/severe oral dysplasia. This in order to implement adequate follow-up strategies and treatment decisions. STUDY DESIGN: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis on studies reporting the MT rates of OPMDs and oral dysplasia. Ninety-two studies were included for the analysis. Cumulative rates were reported for OPMDs overall and as a subgroup, a comparison was made of mild vs moderate/severe dysplasia. Meta-regression on OPMD and year of publication was also performed. MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES: Overall MT rates of OPMDs and odds ratio of MT of mild vs moderate/severe dysplasia.