SALIVA AS A DIAGNOSTIC TOOL: INSIGHTS INTO ORAL CANCER BIOMARKERS

This narrative review highlights the emerging role of salivary markers in the detection of oral cancer. Saliva contains diverse biomolecules that can provide valuable information on physiological and pathological processes in the body, including specific biomarkers that indicate the presence and progression of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Salivary markers have the potential to transform the diagnosis and management of malignant oral lesions by offering a non-invasive approach to screening and monitoring the disease. This review examines the current state of knowledge regarding salivary markers in oral cancer, including their advantages over traditional biopsy-based techniques, limitations, and the need for further research. It concludes by outlining the future prospects of salivary biomarkers in oral cancer detection and management.