Potential benefits of novel agent Tanshinone in the management of oral submucous fibrosis

Abstract

Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is a chronic insidious disease characterized by difficulties in mouth opening and tongue movement, burning sensation and fibrosis of the oral mucosa leading to dietary restrictions, impaired speech, and difficulty in maintaining oral health. Several factors may attribute to the disease that include areca nut chewing, genetic predisposition, immunologic processes, consumption of chillies and nutritional deficiencies. Currently many treatment modalities for OSMF are available with varied results such as antioxidants, vitamins, corticosteroids, peripheral vasodilators, enzymes and surgical procedures. However, no single therapy can completely relieve the symptoms of OSMF. Therefore, identification of an effective treatment modality for OSMF is necessary. The current review article highlights the potential benefits of the novel agent tanshinones (TSNs) in the management of OSMF.