COMPARISON OF GLYCOGEN CONTENT, BASEMENT MEMBRANE INTEGRITY AND MITOTIC INDEX IN STAGES OF ORAL DYSPLASIA PROGRESSION TO CANCER AND IN ORAL LICHEN-LICHENOID REACTIONS: A HISTOCHEMICAL STUDY

Introduction: The glycogen content and basement membrane play significant roles as of energy reservoir, keeping cells adhered and also as a mechanical barrier against invading cells. The potential of a cell to regenerate or clone marks its existence and also its neoplasticity. The sequential progression of changes in a cell that render it dysplastic is owing to the changes in attributes of the basement membrane integrity, the energy metabolism and the cell turnover. Aims & Objectives: To study the glycogen content, basement membrane integrity & mitotic index with the use of Lillie allochrome stains to assess its role in predicting the gradual transformation. Materials & Methods: A retrospective study using the archives from the department. Study involves 15 samples each of mild, moderate, severe dysplasia and invasive carcinoma of the oral cavity and also of lichenoid disease and lichen planus. Result: The study showed a regressive trend in distribution of glycogen content across progression of cancer with a statistical significance of p<0.005. The loss of basement integrity of invasive cases was evident. The mitotic index parameter revealed significant results with progressive increase across the stages. Conclusion: A combination of simple and different parameters helps in early and accurate diagnosis of the pre-malignant lesions and conditions. Clinical Relevance: Evaluation involves a histochemical stain and thus provides for easy affordability, visual dexterity and quick results for both the patient and doctor.