Oral Cancer

What is Oral Cancer? Cancer of the mouth is the most common head and neck cancer. Oral cancer is particularly dangerous because in its early stages it may not be noticed by the patient, and because it has a high risk of producing second, primary tumors. Patients who survive a first encounter with the disease, have up to a 20 times higher risk of developing a second cancer. This heightened risk factor can last for 10 years after the first occurrence.

Synonyms: Mouth cancer

Symptoms

A sore or lump on the lip or in the mouth that does not heal
A white and/or red patch on the gums, tongue, or cheeks
Unusual or persistent bleeding, pain, or numbness in the mouth
Swelling that causes dentures to fit poorly or become uncomfortable
An ulcer or bleeding

Causes

Tobacco Use
Alcohol consumption Human papillomavirus infection
Prolonged exposure to sunlight
Poor dental and oral hygiene
Risk Factors
Men are twice as likely to develop oral cancer than women
Most people diagnosed are over the age of 55.

Development

Cancer results from changes in genes which control cell behaviors. Mutated genes may result in a cell which grows at an uncontrolled rate, and is unable to repair DNA damage within itself, or refuses to self destruct or die. It takes more than one mutation to turn a cell cancerous. Specific classes of genes must be mutated several times to result in a cancerous cell, which then grows in an uncontrolled manner. When a cell does become mutated to this point, it is capable of passing on the mutations to all of its progeny when it divides. Genetic errors can be inherited. Cancer can develop as a result of exposure to chemicals, radiation or infections.

Diagnosis

Gum biopsy
Tongue biopsy
X-rays and CT scans may be done to determine if the cancer has spread.

Treatment Options
Oral cancer treatment may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a combination of these treatments Speech therapy or other therapy to improve movement, chewing, swallowing, and speech.

Resources