Analysis of clinicopathological parameters of oral squamous cell carcinoma in different age groups

Context: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common malignancy of oral cavity. OSCC shows geographical variation with respect to the age, sex, site, and habits of the population. In general, OSCC is most commonly seen in men in the 6th to 8th decades of life and is rare in patients younger than 40 years. In recent years, it have been observed an increased incidence of OSCC in young individuals. Aims: To compare and correlate the clinical parameters of OSCC in different age groups. Settings and Design: Ninety histopathologically diagnosed cases with OSCC were included in our prospective study. These patients were divided into three groups: Group I: 30 patients below 40 years of age; Group II: 30 patients who were between 41 and 60 years of age; and Group III: 30 patients who were above 60 years of age. Subjects and Methods: The relevant information regarding clinical parameters, i.e., age, sex, site of lesion, risk factors, duration of habit, tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) staging, and clinical diagnosis were collected and tabulated. Statistical Analysis Used: The Chi-square test was applied to evaluate the significant difference among different age groups. Results: There was a statistically significant difference in the duration of habit and TNM staging among different age groups. Conclusions: OSCC in different age groups shows some differences as well as similarities in the parameters that were analyzed.