Summary about Disease
Oral cancer encompasses cancers of the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheek lining, hard and soft palate, floor of the mouth, and the area behind the wisdom teeth. It's a serious condition that can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated early. Oral cancer is often associated with tobacco and alcohol use, but it can also occur in individuals with no known risk factors.
Symptoms
A sore or irritation that doesn't heal within two weeks.
A lump, thickening, rough spot, crust or eroded area on the lips, gums or other areas inside the mouth.
White, red or speckled (white and red) patches in the mouth.
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth.
Unexplained numbness, loss of feeling or pain/tenderness in any area of the mouth.
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking or moving the jaw or tongue.
Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, or change in voice.
A change in the way your teeth fit together when you close your mouth.
Unexplained weight loss.
Ear pain.
Causes
Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using smokeless tobacco significantly increases the risk.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Especially when combined with tobacco use.
Human papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, are linked to oral cancers, especially those in the oropharynx (back of the throat).
Sun exposure: Lip cancer can be associated with prolonged sun exposure, especially without sun protection.
Weakened immune system: Individuals with compromised immune systems are at higher risk.
Poor nutrition: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk.
Genetic predisposition: A family history of oral cancer may slightly increase your risk.
Medicine Used
Treatment for oral cancer often involves a combination of:
Surgery: To remove the tumor and affected tissues.
Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Using drugs to kill cancer cells, often used in combination with surgery or radiation.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific proteins or pathways involved in cancer cell growth.
Immunotherapy: Drugs that help your immune system fight cancer. Specific medications used depend on the type and stage of cancer, and overall patient health. Examples include cisplatin, carboplatin, cetuximab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab.
Is Communicable
No, oral cancer is not communicable. It cannot be spread from person to person like a cold or the flu. The primary infectious agent involved, HPV, is communicable, but HPV infection does not automatically lead to oral cancer.
Precautions
Avoid tobacco use: Quit smoking and avoid all forms of tobacco.
Limit alcohol consumption: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.
Use sun protection: Apply sunscreen to your lips regularly, especially when outdoors.
Get the HPV vaccine: The HPV vaccine can help prevent HPV infections that can lead to oral cancer.
Maintain good oral hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly, and visit your dentist for regular checkups.
Eat a healthy diet: Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Self-exams: Regularly check your mouth for any unusual sores, lumps, or changes.
Regular dental checkups: Your dentist is often the first to notice signs of oral cancer.
How long does an outbreak last?
Oral cancer is not an "outbreak" in the infectious disease sense. It is a chronic disease process that develops over time. Symptoms may persist and worsen if left untreated.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor or dentist will examine your mouth and throat for any abnormalities.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the suspicious area and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells. This is the definitive diagnostic test.
Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans may be used to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the throat to visualize the area.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of oral cancer symptoms can vary greatly from person to person. In the early stages, there may be no noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms may appear gradually, starting with a small sore or lesion that doesn't heal. The rate of progression depends on the type of cancer, its location, and individual factors.
Important Considerations
Early detection is crucial for successful treatment.
Treatment can have significant side effects, depending on the chosen modalities.
Oral cancer can significantly impact speech, swallowing, and appearance, affecting quality of life.
Rehabilitation and support services are important for patients during and after treatment.
Long-term follow-up care is necessary to monitor for recurrence.
Survival rates vary depending on the stage at diagnosis and the specific type of oral cancer.