Potential use of liquid biopsy in diagnosing oral malignancies

Liquid biopsy is a minimally invasive method with strong potential for detecting and monitoring oral cancers. By analyzing ctDNA, CTCs, exosomes and other tumor-derived biomarkers, it enables early detection, prognosis and treatment monitoring. Unlike tissue biopsy, it allows repeated sampling to track tumor burden and genetic changes over time. In oral squamous cell carcinoma, studies show good sensitivity and specificity for detecting mutations, methylation and protein markers. However, standardization, biomarker validation and cost-effectiveness remain challenges for clinical use.