Circulating tumor cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma – Current status of its usefulness in clinical practice

Abstract

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are considered metastatic intermediates that are being shed from the primary tumor which extravasate and circulate in the blood. CTCs are a hotspot of oncological research for the last few decades. It has immense potential in early diagnosis, detecting recurrence, determining chemotherapeutic efficiency as well as individuals' sensitivity toward drugs. CTCs are emerging as an invaluable detection tool in bridging the gap in the transition from a population-based to a personalized approach. These cells may be a future target in refining and personalizing cancer treatment. This review attempts to critically analyze the current understanding of CTCs in oral squamous cell carcinoma and the challenges to its clinical utility at present.