Prognostic Significance of Clear Cell Variant of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Rare Case Report

Clear cell variant of squamous cell carcinoma (CCSCC) is a rare histological subtype of oral squamous cell carcinoma. Histopathologically, it is defined by malignant epithelial cells having clear cytoplasm based on intracellular accumulation of glycogen, and they usually resemble other clear cell neoplasms of salivary or metastatic origin. The case is that of a male aged 41 years with a nonhealing ulcer on the left posterior buccal mucosa for more than 6 months. Histopathological evaluation showed moderately differentiated SCC with a clear cell feature. The patient received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) with subsequent surgical planning. This report highlights the diagnostic challenge posed by CCSCC, the importance of histopathological and immunohistochemical work-up, and the need for accurate management of this rare entity. A timeline of events is described narratively, covering the onset of ulcer, diagnostic biopsy, initiation of NACT, surgical intervention, and 6-month follow-up. Prognostic relevance is briefly linked to available literature.