The configuration of clinics and the use of biopsy and photography in oral premalignancy: a survey of consultants of the British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Oral dysplastic lesions may have an increased chance of becoming oral squamous cell carcinoma, but to date their management remains controversial. The aim of this survey was to explore the current practical aspects of the management of patients with dysplasia by oral and maxillofacial consultants in the UK. In the survey we asked consultants about the numbers of patients they see with oral premalignant lesions, the frequency and specialty of designated hospital clinics, their use of photographs and biopsy, factors that influence their decision whether to biopsy a lesion at the first appointment, the procedure for treatment and follow-up and their use (if any) of chemopreventive agents. We found a wide variation in the practical aspects of managing patients with dysplasia, and the lack of consistency among clinicians supports the idea of an initiative to establish more robust national guidelines to use as a gold standard in the future.