Clinicopathological characteristics and follow-up outcomes of patients with oral potentially malignant disorders: A 7-year observational cohort study

Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) comprise a group of oral mucosal abnormalities associated with an increased risk of malignant transformation. Early diagnosis, appropriate management, and long-term follow-up are essential to reduce the likelihood of cancer progression. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and histopathological characteristics of OPMDs, their dysplastic changes, and clinical outcomes of patients referred to Alborz dental school between 2019 and 2025.This combined retrospective and prospective cohort study included 50 patients diagnosed with OPMDs. Data were collected using a standardized clinician-completed checklist, along with comprehensive clinical examinations and histopathological assessments. Recorded variables included demographic characteristics, type and location of lesions, and associated risk factors. The study population consisted of 64% females, with the majority of patients aged between 40 and 60 years. Plaque-type oral lichen planus and non-homogeneous leukoplakia were the most frequently diagnosed lesions. The buccal mucosa and tongue were the most commonly involved sites. Burning sensation was reported by 52% of patients. Histopathological examination revealed lichenoid mucositis in 86% of patients, with mild epithelial dysplasia observed in 7%. In contrast, dysplastic changes were identified in 57% of patients with leukoplakia. Therapeutic interventions included topical corticosteroids and intralesional corticosteroid injections. At follow-up, 80% of patients exhibited persistent lesions with plaque-type morphology and white lesions being most common; however, a subset of patients reported reduction in pain and burning sensation. Early diagnosis and structured long-term follow-up are essential for appropriate risk assessment and early detection of potential malignant progression.