Open AccessScreening for Lesions with an Oral Mucosal Brush Biopsy
Author(s) -
Seltzer Paul,
Gold Daniel R.,
Loewenstein Ronald K.,
Carroll Deborah J.
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
otolaryngology–head and neck surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.232
H-Index - 121
eISSN - 1097-6817
pISSN - 0194-5998
DOI - 10.1177/0194599811415823a70
Subject(s) - medicine , brush , biopsy , cytology , lesion , radiology , surgery , pathology , electrical engineering , engineering
Objective Evaluate the use and impact of providing a noninvasive oral brush biopsy to patients presenting on an initial visit with a mildly or nonsuspicious oral lesion. The cytopathologic findings can be used as confirmatory evidence in support of the clinical impression. Method The brush biopsy test provided an option to patients presenting nonsuspicious lesions at our office over a 24‐month period. Impressions regarding obtaining a specimen and time required were monitored. When brush biopsy tests were ordered, cytologic evaluation was performed. Doctors were surveyed on their impressions of the test. Results The brush biopsy test was performed on patients with mildly to nonsuspicious lesions. Cytology evaluation was performed, and abnormal or dysplastic cells were reported. Results showed how the brush biopsy cytology confirmed the clinical impressions. Survey of clinicians indicated that tests were relatively easy to perform and could be completed in a reasonable timeframe of less than 10 minutes during the initial visit. Doctors reported benefits of ease of performance, absence of identifiable risks, and complications from the tests. Conclusion Oral brush biopsy can be provided to patients as a screening option for oral mucosal lesions that are not highly suspicious. Surveys indicated the test was perceived as an instrument to provide confidence to patients and gather information early with no complications and risk factors during the visit.