Salivary Circulating Tumor Cells as a Transformative Tool in Noninvasive Cancer Diagnostics: A Review

Abstract Oral squamous cell carcinoma remains a global health challenge due to its notable morbidity and mortality rates. Early detection and effective monitoring are critical for improving patient outcomes, as early-stage diagnosis is strongly correlated with better prognosis. However, conventional diagnostic methods such as tissue biopsies and blood tests are invasive, limiting their utility for regular monitoring. Recent advancements highlight the potential of detecting tumor cells in saliva as a noninvasive, accessible, and cost-effective alternative. Saliva-based tumor cell detection offers a particularly promising avenue for diagnosing and monitoring oral and oropharyngeal cancers. This review explores the feasibility, advantages, and challenges of utilizing saliva-based tumor cell detection for early diagnosis, disease monitoring, and personalized treatment strategies.