In the present study Serum Vitamin C in Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) was estimated. The objective was to evaluate the Serum Vitamin C in OSMF individuals. OSMF is basically a disorder of collagen metabolism where Vitamin C gets utilized in conversion of proline into hydroxyproline, this hydroxylation reaction requires Vitamin C. In recent years OSMF has received considerable attention as a precursor to cancer of oral cavity but till date there is no report suggesting spontaneous regression and no widely accepted treatment. Many studies regarding micronutrients and other antioxidants levels have been emphasized, but very few studies are done on the Serum levels of Vitamin C in OSMF patients.

Twenty five OSMF patients with age and gender matched healthy individuals (controls) were selected. Two ml of venous blood was collected from each individual. Vitamin C level in serum was estimated by 2-4 Dinitrophenylhydrzine method. The level of Serum Vitamin-C was significantly decreased in OSMF patients when compared to controls which were statistically significant. On the basis of these observations, it seems possible that the chemical, thermal and/or mechanical factors associated with the use of areca nut may act in conjunction with the Vitamin C deficiency leading to the development of OSMF. Thus we should consider Vitamin C  in management of OSMF.