Treatment options for cancer of the lips include surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. In some cases, chemotherapy may also be necessary. In addition to surgery, this type of therapy may also be combined with other forms of treatment, such as targeted therapies or chemotherapy. This is especially true if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. When chemotherapy isn’t enough, patients can also try other complementary treatments such as homeopathic remedies and supplements.
During the initial visit, a health care provider may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and determine the stage of the disease. The biopsy may involve other tests, including imaging tests, endoscopy, or the collection of additional tissues. A treatment plan is created in conjunction with the patient and will depend on the results of the biopsy. The treatment of cancer of the lip depends on its stage and the location of the cancer. Although early detection is critical for patient outcomes, there are also risks of not finding it at the first visit.
The most common type of lip cancer is SCC, which affects 94-95% of patients. While most cases of lip cancer are confined to the upper lip, BCCs are more common. Less than 20% of cases result in lymph node metastasis to the neck and head. Patients with BCCs may undergo surgical removal of their tumors so that reconstruction is not complicated. In addition to surgery, patients may also undergo chemotherapy to determine the extent of the tumor.
Depending on the stage of the cancer, the treatment for this condition may include chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Rehabilitation may also be a part of the treatment. Speech pathologists may also be involved. In the case of oral cancer, treatment will involve a multidisciplinary approach, including medical oncologists, nutritionists, psychologists, and dentists. In some cases, a tracheotomy or feeding tube may be necessary to treat the cancer.
In the US, the incidence of lip cancer is about 1.8 per 100 thousand people, although it may be higher in parts of Asia. Male smokers are more likely to develop the disease than nonsmokers, and it is more common in men than in women. The incidence rate of this disease is stable, or declining in men across the world, but rising in female populations in the UK. Therefore, it’s important to consider all possible risk factors when evaluating treatment options for patients with cancer of the lip.
Treatment for lip cancer usually involves surgery. A surgeon may perform a simple procedure to remove the tumor, or a more extensive procedure if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. While surgery is the most common treatment for lip cancer, the ability to speak, eat, and even look after the surgery can be maintained with proper planning. If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms or if your condition is unrelenting, consult with a physician immediately.
