Biomarkers of oxidative stress associated with the risk of potentially malignant oral disorders

Aim: To investigate the effect of oxidative stress biomarkers on the risk of potentially malignant oral disorders (PMODs). Materials and Methods: A total of 208 male adults with PMODs and an equal number of same-age control patients were enrolled. Plasma biomarkers of oxidative stress, measured with 8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and 8-isoprostane (8-ISO), were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. PMODs were diagnosed in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Results: A significant association between a high level of 8-ISO and an increased risk of PMODs was identified [odds ratio (OR)=1.71, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.12-2.63; p=0.013]. This positive association was stronger among patients with PMOD subtype of leukoplakia (OR=1.94, 95% Cl=1.24-3.06; p=0.004). However, no significant association was observed between plasma 8-OHdG levels and overall risk of PMODs or subtypes. Conclusion: Increased plasma 8-ISO levels may indicate the prominence of lipid peroxidation in the development of PMODs, particularly leukoplakia.