Abstract

EFFICACY OF LYCOPENE AND SERRATIOPEPTIDASE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ORAL SUBMUCOUS FIBROSIS: A PLACEBOCONTROLLED FOLLOW-UP STUDY

Dr. Raju H. Gavirangaiah, Dr. Sowmya G. V., Dr. Bhari Sharanesha Manjunatha, *Dr. Madhusudan Astekar

Abstract

Introduction: Oral Submucous Fibrosis is a well-known potentially malignant disorder that is insidious and chronic in nature affecting the entire oral cavity, sometimes extending to the pharynx. Various conservative drug treatments and combination therapies that are currently in use are clearly effective and adequate. Hence the use of potential beneficial effects of antioxidants and enzyme therapies are becoming more popular. Aim: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of lycopene and serratiopeptidase in the treatment of oral submucous fibrosis for a follow-up period of four weeks. Materials and Methods: A total of 84 patients of oral submucous fibrosis were included, of which 30 patients were treated with Lycopene & Serratiopeptidase each and 24 patients with placebo. The clinical examination like mouth opening, burning sensation, visual inspection and palpatory findings were evaluated on a weekly interval for a period of four weeks. Results: The evaluation of burning sensation, tongue protrusion, uvula involvement and palpatory findings showed significant improvement; whereas evaluation of mouth opening showed non-significant improvement in both Lycopene and Serratiopeptidase group when compared with placebo. Conclusion: Based on the present results, it is possible to state that in addition to Lycopene, enzyme Serratiopeptidase have got a role in improving the signs and symptoms of oral submucous fibrosis. It is suggested that further studies on a larger sample size and for a longer follow up period were necessary to arrive at a broader approach.

Keywords: Antioxidants; Burning Sensation; Enzyme Therapy; Free Radicals; Oxidative Stress.