Abstract
PURPOSE: This research evaluates the efficacy of non-invasive biopsy techniques-brush biopsy, liquid-based cytology, and salivary diagnostics-in the screening and diagnosis of oral cancers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An observational research was conducted involving patients with clinically suspicious oral lesions. Each participant underwent all three non-invasive biopsy procedures. The results were compared to histopathological findings from surgical biopsies, the gold standard, to assess diagnostic accuracy. Statistical analyses calculated sensitivity, specificity, "positive predictive value," and "negative predictive value" for each method. RESULTS: Brush biopsy demonstrated the highest sensitivity (85%) and specificity (90%), indicating superior diagnostic accuracy. Liquid-based cytology showed moderate sensitivity (80%) and specificity (85%), while salivary diagnostics had the lowest sensitivity (75%) and specificity (80%). Comparative analysis revealed statistically significant differences favoring brush biopsy over the other techniques (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Among the evaluated non-invasive methods, brush biopsy exhibits the highest diagnostic accuracy for detecting oral cancers, suggesting its potential as a reliable alternative to traditional invasive biopsies. Implementing brush biopsy in clinical practice could enhance early detection and improve patient outcomes.