Estimation of Serum Beta 2-Microglobulin Levels in Individuals Exposed to Carcinogens: Clinical Study in Indian Population

The aim of the study is to evaluate the prognostic value of β2-m as a biochemical parameter for the diagnosis and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). The study included 60 patients (15 oral SCC, 15 leukoplakia, 15 individuals exposed to various carcinogens and without oral cancerous or precancerous lesions, 15 healthy individuals). The levels of β2-m were estimated using chemi-luminescent immunometric assay on Immulite fully automated machine. Statistical analysis of the data was done using Tuckey’s test, ANOVA and independent sample t test. Results showed that β2-m was increased in individuals exposed to carcinogens without precancerous and cancerous lesion. Serum β2-m can be used as a better indicator and can give an early indication of malignant change and therefore malignancy can be detected at an early and treatable stage.