Summary about Disease
Oral cavity cancer includes cancers of the lips, tongue, gums, lining of the cheeks, floor of the mouth, and hard palate. It is often classified as a type of head and neck cancer. Prognosis varies greatly depending on the stage at diagnosis.
Symptoms
A sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn't heal (most common)
A white or red patch in the mouth
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Difficulty chewing
Loose teeth
A growth or lump in the mouth or neck
Numbness in the mouth or jaw
Jaw pain or stiffness
Change in voice
Ear pain
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
Causes
Tobacco use: Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and using smokeless tobacco (chewing tobacco, snuff) are major risk factors.
Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption increases the risk. The risk is significantly higher when combined with tobacco use.
Human papillomavirus (HPV): Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, are associated with oropharyngeal cancers (cancers in the back of the throat, including the base of the tongue and tonsils), which are often grouped with oral cavity cancers.
Sun exposure: Lip cancer is associated with prolonged sun exposure.
Poor oral hygiene: May contribute to risk.
Weakened immune system: People with compromised immune systems are at higher risk.
Genetic predisposition: Family history can play a role.
Medicine Used
Treatment for oral cavity cancer often involves a combination of approaches, and medications are a key part of this. Types of medications used and examples include but are not limited to:
Chemotherapy: Drugs that kill cancer cells. Examples include cisplatin, carboplatin, fluorouracil (5-FU), docetaxel, and paclitaxel.
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific proteins or pathways involved in cancer growth. Examples include cetuximab.
Immunotherapy: Drugs that help the immune system fight cancer. Examples include pembrolizumab and nivolumab.
Pain medication: Opioids, non-opioid pain relievers, and adjuvant medications (like antidepressants or anticonvulsants) to manage pain.
Antifungal/antibacterial medication: Used to treat infections that may arise due to treatment (chemotherapy).
Medication for side effects: Used to treat side effects of chemo, radiation, and other treatments.
Is Communicable
No. Oral cavity cancer is not communicable or contagious. It cannot be spread from person to person through contact, air, or bodily fluids. HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers are linked to a sexually transmitted virus (HPV), but the cancer itself is not contagious.
Precautions
Avoid tobacco use: Quit smoking and avoid all forms of tobacco.
Limit alcohol consumption: Moderate or eliminate alcohol intake.
Use sun protection: Apply sunscreen to the lips and face regularly.
Practice good oral hygiene: Brush and floss teeth regularly, and visit the dentist for regular checkups.
Get vaccinated against HPV: The HPV vaccine can help prevent HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers.
Regular check-ups: Visit the dentist and doctor regularly for screenings, especially if you have risk factors.
Healthy diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
How long does an outbreak last?
Oral cavity cancer is not an outbreak; it is a chronic disease that develops over time. If left untreated, it will continue to progress. Treatment timelines vary depending on the stage, type, and individual response. Treatment could take weeks to months.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor or dentist will examine the mouth, throat, and neck for any abnormalities.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from any suspicious areas 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 can help determine the size and location of the tumor and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Endoscopy: Using a small camera attached to a thin tube (endoscope) to examine areas that are hard to see during physical examination.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms is variable. In some cases, the onset may be gradual, with subtle symptoms that are easily ignored. In others, symptoms may appear more rapidly. General Progression, Early Stage: small, painless ulcers or lesions. Intermediate Stage: Larger ulcers, pain, difficulty swallowing, lumps in the neck. Advanced Stage: Significant pain, difficulty swallowing, speech problems, weight loss, metastasis to other parts of the body.
Important Considerations
Early detection is crucial: The earlier oral cavity cancer is detected, the better the chance of successful treatment.
Multidisciplinary approach: Treatment typically involves a team of specialists, including surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, dentists, and speech therapists.
Quality of life: Treatment can have significant side effects that impact quality of life. Supportive care is essential.
Follow-up care: Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor for recurrence and manage any long-term side effects of treatment.
Dental health: Maintaining good dental health is important during and after treatment.
Nutrition: Maintaining adequate nutrition can be challenging. A registered dietician can provide guidance.
Psychological support: The emotional and psychological impact of cancer can be significant. Counseling or support groups can be helpful.