Overview
Tongue cancer is a type of cancer that originates as an abnormal growth of cells on the tongue. The tongue is a muscular organ in the mouth that helps with speaking, eating, and swallowing, and is composed of various parts, including the oral tongue and the base of the tongue. Tongue cancer can occur in different parts of the tongue, such as the mouth or throat, and can be classified as oral tongue cancer or oropharyngeal tongue cancer. The most common type of tongue cancer begins in the squamous cells that line the surface of the tongue, called squamous cell carcinoma. Symptoms may include a red or white patch on the tongue or mouth lining, a sore throat, numbness in the mouth or tongue, difficulty swallowing or chewing, and swelling of the jaw. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of tongue cancer may include:
- A sore on the tongue that doesn't heal.
- Pain or bleeding in the mouth.
- A lump or thickening on the tongue.
- A red or white patch on the tongue or lining of the mouth.
- A sore throat that doesn't go away.
- A feeling that something is caught in the throat.
- Numbness of the mouth or tongue.
- Difficulty or pain with chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaws or tongue.
- Swelling of the jaw.
- A change in voice. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor, dentist, or other healthcare professional for an evaluation.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing tongue cancer include tobacco use, consuming alcohol, being exposed to HPV, being male, increasing age, and having a weak immune system.
Development
Tongue cancer starts when healthy cells in the tongue undergo changes in their DNA, which can cause the cells to grow uncontrollably and continue living when they would normally die. This leads to the formation of extra cells that can form a tumor. In time, the cells can break away and spread to other parts of the body. There are several types of tongue cancer, with the most common starting in the thin, flat cells that line the surface of the tongue, called squamous cells. This type of cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma. Other types of tongue cancer can start in the glands or blood vessels in the tongue.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if you have symptoms that worry you, such as a red or white patch on the tongue or lining of the mouth, a sore throat that doesn't go away, a feeling that something is caught in the throat, numbness of the mouth or tongue, difficulty or pain with chewing, swallowing, or moving the jaws or tongue, swelling of the jaw, or a change in voice.
Diagnosis
To diagnose tongue cancer, a doctor, dentist, or other healthcare professional will typically perform a physical examination of the mouth, throat, and neck. They will check for any lumps on the tongue and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Additional tests and procedures that may be used to diagnose tongue cancer include an endoscopy, which involves using a thin tube with a light and camera to inspect the mouth and throat, and a biopsy, which involves removing a sample of cells from the tongue for laboratory testing. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans may also be used to determine the extent of the cancer.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of tongue cancer can include, but are not limited to:
- Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing: Tongue cancer can cause damage to the nerves and muscles in the tongue, leading to difficulty speaking, swallowing, or breathing properly.
- Infection: Surgery or radiation therapy can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of infections.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Difficulty swallowing or eating due to tongue cancer can lead to malnutrition or dehydration.
- Pain: Tongue cancer or its treatments can cause pain, which may require medication or other interventions to manage.
- Secondary cancers: Tongue cancer can spread to other parts of the body, leading to the development of secondary cancers.
- Scarring and disfigurement: Radiation therapy or surgery can cause scarring and disfigurement of the tongue and mouth, affecting appearance and self-esteem.
- Emotional and psychological impact: Tongue cancer can have a significant emotional and psychological impact on the patient and their loved ones, including anxiety, depression, and social isolation. It is essential to follow the recommended treatment plan and work closely with a healthcare team to manage potential complications and improve outcomes.
Prevention
Can tongue cancer be prevented?
Home Remedies
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of tongue cancer. They will be able to recommend appropriate treatment options based on the type, location, and stage of the cancer.
Treatment
Tongue cancer treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. The treatment plan is determined by considering the type of cancer cells, the location and size of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Surgery and radiation therapy are often used together to ensure the best outcome. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy may also be used depending on the specific type of cancer and its stage. Consult your healthcare team for personalized advice on treatment options.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for tongue cancer, you should:
- Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions: Ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restricting your diet.
- Note down symptoms: Write down any symptoms you're experiencing, including those that may not seem related to tongue cancer.
- Record personal information: Make a list of key personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes.
- List medications and supplements: Compile a list of all medicines, vitamins, or supplements you're taking.
- Bring a support person: Consider bringing a family member or friend to help remember important information and discuss your concerns.
- Prepare a list of questions: Write down questions to ask your doctor, prioritizing them in case time runs out. Some basic questions for tongue cancer include:
- What is my stage of tongue cancer?
- Can you explain the pathology report to me? Can I have a copy of my pathology report?
- Will I need more tests?
- What are the treatment options for my tongue cancer?
- What are the benefits and risks of each option?
- Is there one treatment option you recommend over the others?
- Should I get a second opinion from a specialist? What will that cost, and will my insurance cover it?
- Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take with me? What websites do you recommend? Remember to also be prepared to answer basic questions about your symptoms and health, such as when you first began experiencing symptoms and how severe they are.