Clinicopathological Features of Buccal Carcinoma: A Cross-Sectional Study

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Buccal carcinoma remains a leading oral cavity malignancy in Bangladesh, frequently presenting with advanced-stage disease and substantial functional impairment. Its clinicopathological profile, including tumor grade, perineural invasion, and nodal status, critically guides therapeutic decisions. However, contemporary regional data are limited. Objective: To evaluate the clinicopathological features and nodal metastasis patterns in patients with buccal carcinoma. Methods & Materials: This prospective cohort study enrolled 52 patients with histologically confirmed buccal squamous cell carcinoma at Community Based Medical College Hospital Bangladesh, Mymensingh, from January 2024 to December 2025, using purposive sampling. Clinical tumor-node-metastasis staging, histologic grade, perineural and lymphovascular invasion, and cervical nodal involvement were systematically recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0, with descriptive statistics and chi-square tests applied. Results: Among 52 patients, the mean age was 54.3±11.2 years, with male predominance (65.4%, n=34). Advanced T3/T4 tumors comprised 59.6% (n=31), and 42.3% (n=22) had cervical nodal metastasis. Moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma was most frequent (53.8%, n=28). Perineural invasion occurred in 30.8% (n=16) and lymphovascular invasion in 23.1% (n=12). Nodal metastasis significantly correlated with advanced T-stage and perineural invasion (p<0.05). Conclusion: Buccal carcinoma in our cohort exhibits aggressive local features and a notable nodal metastasis rate, especially in advanced stages. Perineural invasion emerges as a key predictor, underscoring the need for vigilant clinical assessment and multimodal management.