Description:
<jats:p>We assessed the ability of monoclonal antibody (MAb) 17.13 to react with human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and other oral tissues. MAb 17.13 was reacted with acetone‐fixed, serial frozen sections of 21 Oscc, 7 fibromas, 2 squamous papillomas, 1 melanosis and 3 normal oral mucosa, by means of an avidin‐biotin‐immunoperoxidase assay. Twenty‐one of 21 tumors (100% sensitivity) reacted strongly with MAb 17.13, with a homogenous staining pattern. Individual tumor cells could be clearly seen, improving the detection of microinvasion or borderline lesions. The epithelium of benign lesions and normal oral mucosa showed staining of the basal cells only. We conclude MAb 17.13 could be used as an accurate diagnostic tool for OSCC.</jats:p>