Autopsy Findings of Alveolar Carcinoma Due to Betel Quid Chewing - A Case Report

Over 200, 000 cases of head and neck cancer occur each year in India. Out of these 80, 000 are diagnosed as oral cancers. Nearly two-thirds of oral cancers are located in the buccogingival sulcus, where the betel quid is kept for long periods in the oral cavity. The location and aetiology of this buccogingival cancer may warrant the term the Indian Oral Cancer [1]. Case discussed underneath is of an alveolar carcinoma with destruction of right side of mandible. Metastases had involved cervical lymph nodes, liver and omentum. This so called Indian Oral Cancer has its inherent aetiology, disease behaviour and prognostication which need special attention when dealing with cancers of such type.