Although no single factor is responsible for the development of tongue cancer, several factors have been associated with its development. People who are heavy drinkers and smokers are at an increased risk. Furthermore, people who are exposed to the human papilloma virus have a greater chance of developing the disease. As early diagnosis and early treatment are the keys to a good prognosis, it is important to seek medical advice as early as possible.
Depending on its stage, the cancer in the tongue can be diagnosed early or advanced. The stage determines the type and location of treatment necessary. For example, cancer in the front two-thirdsthirds of the tongue is staged as oral cancer, while that in the back two-thirds is staged as oropharyngeal cancer. Treatments for tongue cancer will depend on the stage of the disease, but it can range from surgery to chemotherapy.
If the diagnosis is not made on the basis of the symptoms and medical history, a biopsy may be necessary. The most common type of biopsy is an incisional biopsy, which involves removing a small sample of suspected cancer. Typically, this is done in the doctor’s office under local anesthesia. Another method is a brush biopsy, which involves rolling a tiny brush over the suspected area. The brush biopsy produces minor bleeding but allows the doctor to collect cells for testing.
Most people who have tongue cancer will have no outward signs or symptoms. However, some people may develop a lump or ulcer on the side of their tongue that touches their teeth. It may bleed easily and is grayish pink to red in color. Because early stages of tongue cancer are so inconspicuous, it can be difficult to detect. If the tumor has spread to the neck, symptoms may include pain, fullness, difficulty swallowing, changes in the voice, and ear pain.
Diagnosis of tongue cancer begins with a medical history, including family history of any other types of cancer, the amount of drinking and smoking, and HPV virus testing. Afterwards, the doctor will examine the mouth for signs of cancer, including any ulcers or sores that have not healed. The doctor will also check nearby lymph nodes for swelling. While the early detection of tongue cancer may lead to a good prognosis, early treatment will help patients survive the disease.
Treatment for tongue cancer depends on the size and location of the tumor. If the cancer is located on the surface of the tongue, surgery may be the best option. The surgeon may also remove some healthy tissue and lymph nodes. A partial glossectomy is also an option for patients with larger tumors. A partial glossectomy is an operation in which part of the tongue is removed. The patient may also undergo speech therapy after the surgery to learn how to speak and move their tongue again.
There are several types of tongue cancer and their stages. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type. These cells are flat and thin and line the front two-thirds of the tongue. They can develop into a tumor and invade other parts of the mouth. A sore tongue is generally caused by a less serious condition, so be alert for any unusual changes. In addition to oral cancer, people who have been sexually active are also at increased risk of developing tongue cancer.