Identification of a recurrent oral squamous cell carcinoma by brush cytology

Background Large oral lesions comprise the risk that an incisional biopsy does not reveal the most aggressive site in spite of carefully selecting the place of biopsy. Case report The first incisional biopsy of a large, clinically suspect, oral lesion could not identify the subepidermal spread of a recurrent oral squamous cell carcinoma. Atypical cells obtained by a simultaneous brush biopsy prompted a renewed, incisional biopsy which finally established the diagnosis of a recurrent, oral squamous cell carcinoma. Conclusions The presented case emphasizes the value of brush biopsy in the follow-up of oral squamous cell carcinoma, especially in examination of oral lesions covering a large area.