Evaluation of salivary endothelin-1 levels in oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral leukoplakia.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most frequent malignant neoplasia of the oral cavity, which largely compromises the patient's life quality. Therefore, the identification of biomarkers for this kind of cancer is essential to provide a better diagnosis and prognosis for patients. Endothelin-1 is a peptide produced mainly by endothelial cells, and might be found in several body fluids, such as saliva, milk, urine, cerebrospinal fluid and plasma.

Endothelins and their receptors as biological markers for oral cancer.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is one of the most common malignancies recognized nowadays, and represents a public health problem. Its early detection is the better alternative to provide a good quality of life for the patients. During the last years, several studies have identified potential biomarkers of OSCC progression and prognosis.