Evaluation of micronuclei in betel quid chewers, potentially malignant oral disorders, and oral squamous cell carcinoma patients: A cytological assay

Background: The micronuclei are round to oval extranuclear cytoplasmic bodies associated with chromosomal aberrations. Micronuclei are reported to be prognostic biomarkers in the screening of potentially malignant disorders (PMDs) and oral cancer. The present study was done to determine, compare, and correlate micronuclei count in normal participants, betel quid chewers, PMDs, and oral squamous cell carcinoma patients (OSCC). Materials and Methods: The buccal smears in each group were stained by Papanicolaou technique using commercially available staining kit RAPIDPAP®. Micronuclei were identified and counted in all the cases using standardized techniques. Comparative statistical evaluation was done within and among the groups. Results: The median value of micronuclei in each group was assessed using Kruskal– Wallis test. Intergroup comparison was done using Dunn’s Multiple Comparison Test. A significant increase in the median values of micronuclei in betel quid chewers was found compared to normal participants. The median values of micronuclei were significantly higher in OSCC patients followed by oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), leukoplakia, oral lichen planus, and betel quid chewers as compared to normal participants. Conclusion: The median values of micronuclei are indicative of cytogenetic damage induced by potential carcinogens. Micronuclei counts are reliable cytogenetic tools in the progression of carcinogenesis.