Western European statistics indicate a trend of decreasing male incidence but increasing female incidence, but many other regions of the world are experiencing an overall rise in oral cancer. The median age at diagnosis for tongue cancer is 61, with only two percent to seven percent diagnosed before the age of 35. The rate of development of tongue SCC is increasing as the population becomes older.
Patients with carcinomatous induration on the tongue usually have a ovoid nodule that extends parallel to the mid-line of the tongue. It may be a small nodule or an ulcer, but it is often hard and indistinct in shape. Patients with aphthous ulcer typically experience pain arising from the lingual or auriculotemporal nerve. They may also experience difficulties speaking or have their tongue fixed in place.
Diagnostic tests for throat and tongue cancer include special x-rays. The Panorex, which shows the full upper and lower jaw and the sinuses, may be used to confirm the cancer diagnosis. These imaging tests give doctors more detailed information about the cancer, including its depth, and whether or not it has spread. This is called the “stage” of cancer. This information can be important when it comes to treatment. Your doctor will recommend a course of treatment based on the findings of your test.
The symptoms of tongue cancer are difficult to predict and may be related to another medical problem, such as a virus. It is important to consult your GP or dentist if you suspect that you have tongue cancer, as early detection will lead to a better prognosis. The UC Irvine Head and Neck cancer specialists use a unique screening technique to identify the cancer in its early stages. They are specially trained to identify any potential risk factors and treat it successfully.
The symptoms of tongue cancer are not as obvious as those of oral cancer, but they may be indicative of a broader disease, such as thyroid cancer or a gastrointestinal disorder. Tongue cancer usually spreads to neck levels I to III. Doctors also assign a grade for tongue cancer based on the depth of invasion. A tumor invasive to three to eight millimeters has a 40%-50% risk of occult nodal metastasis, and a 65% overall incidence.
The most common type of tongue cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which affects the back third of the tongue, which is very close to the throat. This type of cancer is also known as oropharyngeal cancer. It is most common in people who smoke, drink alcohol, consume red meat, or have the human papillomavirus. Tongue cancer is usually asymptomatic, but symptoms may become more severe in later stages, and patients may experience pain in the throat, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or even ear pain.
