How can cancer of the lip be diagnosed? A medical doctor will visually inspect the sore and ask a series of questions to determine whether it is indeed cancer. If the cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. This procedure is usually performed by an ear-nose-throat practitioner, but in some cases, the physician may perform it on a patient with no symptoms. In most cases, this biopsy is performed under local anesthesia. Pain usually subsides after a few days, although it may be necessary in more advanced cases or in children.
Treatment for lip cancer depends on its stage and location. Early-stage disease is usually treated with surgery. In advanced stages, other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, may be used. However, in most cases, the treatment for cancer of the lip is more predictable when it is detected in its early stages. However, patients who suffer from advanced stages of the disease may also benefit from targeted drug therapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Your healthcare provider will explain the treatment options available to you and help you make the best decision.
Lip cancer incidence rates vary according to sex. In the US, men are more likely to develop this cancer than women, with a ratio of 4.6 per 100 000 in the UK. The reason may lie in the different behavior and occupational habits of the two sexes. For example, men are more likely than women to work outdoors and engage in outdoor leisure activities. Women use lip products to protect their lips from the sun, such as lipstick. However, men are more prone to develop cancer of the lower lip if they smoke and work in the open air. Caucasians are also more likely to develop this type of cancer than other ethnic groups.
It is important to note that lip cancer is generally a curable type of head and neck cancer. Early detection is essential in maximizing the chances of a cure. Fortunately, lip cancer is highly treatable if detected early. It can have serious consequences, including speech difficulties, chewing problems, and aesthetic effects. Surgery can disfigure the lips. The Mayo Clinic lists two common treatments for this type of cancer. They are described below:
Radiation therapy can also be effective in treating lip cancer. During treatment, doctors may choose to remove as much of the cancer tissue as possible. Radiation therapy may be a suitable choice if the tumor has spread to lymph nodes. Additionally, patients may opt for chemotherapy, which is another method used to destroy cancer cells. These treatments are administered intravenously or orally. These procedures can be combined with radiation therapy. If these treatments are not enough, your doctor may consider other treatment options.
The treatment of cancer of lip is different depending on its stage. Early lip cancer is more likely to respond to treatment than later cancers. The first treatment option will include surgery, and chemotherapy will be used to treat the disease if it is detected in the early stages. If the cancer is diagnosed at an advanced stage, it may spread to nearby nerves and jawbone. In this case, a biopsy may be required to determine the best course of treatment.
