An Insight into Tumor Markersin Oral Cancer: A Review

Abstract

Tumor markers are substances that are produced either by the tumor itself or by the body in response to the presence of cancer or certain benign conditions that can aid in the diagnosis of cancer. These markers may be employed to predict primary or secondary tumor risk. Sometimes, non-cancerous conditions can also cause elevation of some tumor markers to be higher than normal. Besides, not every cancer patient may have raised level of a tumor marker. For these reasons, knowledge about cancer biomarkers is essential. This review highlights potential molecular markers relevant to oral neoplasia in terms of their perspective role of in prevention and detection.