Oral Tongue Cancer

Oral tongue cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that occurs in the tongue, which is a vital part of the oral cavity. It is a subtype of oral cavity cancer, which also includes cancers of the lips, gums, floor of the mouth, and other areas of the mouth.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of oral tongue cancer is not known, but several risk factors have been identified. These include:

• Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are major risk factors for oral tongue cancer.
• Alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking can increase the risk of developing oral tongue cancer.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV-16, have been linked to an increased risk of oral tongue cancer.
• Poor diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of developing oral tongue cancer.
• Family history: Having a family history of oral cavity cancer may increase an individual's risk of developing oral tongue cancer.

Symptoms

The symptoms of oral tongue cancer can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• A sore or lump on the tongue that does not heal
• Pain or discomfort in the tongue or mouth
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Bleeding or numbness in the tongue
• Loosening of teeth or dentures

Diagnosis

Oral tongue cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and biopsy. The diagnostic process may include:

• Visual examination: A doctor will examine the tongue and mouth for any visible signs of cancer.
• Biopsy: A sample of tissue from the suspected tumor is removed and examined under a microscope for cancer cells.
• Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to determine the size and location of the tumor.

Treatment Options

The treatment options for oral tongue cancer depend on the stage and location of the tumor. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue may be necessary to treat oral tongue cancer.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
• Chemotherapy: Medications are used to kill cancer cells and slow tumor growth.

Stages of Oral Tongue Cancer

The stages of oral tongue cancer are classified based on the size and location of the tumor, as well as whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body. The stages include:

• Stage I: The tumor is small (less than 2 cm) and has not spread to lymph nodes.
• Stage II: The tumor is larger (2-4 cm) but has not spread to lymph nodes.
• Stage III: The tumor is large (more than 4 cm) or has spread to lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or liver.

Prognosis and Survival Rates

The prognosis and survival rates for oral tongue cancer vary depending on the stage and location of the tumor. Generally, early-stage cancers have a better prognosis than late-stage cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for people with oral cavity cancer is around 63%. However, this number can vary depending on individual factors.