Oral cancer screening involves looking for potential cancers in the mouth, including abnormal patches of white or red blood cells. Various methods include applying blue dye, using a fluorescent light, and harvesting cells for examination. False results can occur, but those at risk for oral cancer may benefit from screening.
Oral cancer screening is a method of looking for potential cancers in the mouth. Screening tests are done by doctors and dentists to look for lesions or abnormal patches of white or red blood cells. During screening, high-risk areas of the mouth are examined, including the back of the mouth, the top and sides of the tongue, and the soft palate. If something unusual is found in the mouth, it does not immediately indicate that a person has cancer. Abnormalities indicate that further tests should be done to determine if cancer is present in the mouth.
In addition to a quick visual exam, there are several oral cancer screening methods to detect abnormal tissue that is potentially cancerous. One method includes applying a blue dye inside an individual’s mouth or rinsing the patient with a blue dye. Darker areas can be an indication that cancer is present in the mouth.
Another method of oral cancer screening includes the use of a fluorescent light. During the oral exam, a doctor or dentist shines a special light on the patient’s mouth or has the patient rinse with fluorescent mouthwash. Under the light, healthy areas of the mouth will appear dark while abnormal tissue will appear white.
Other oral cancer screening methods include harvesting cells from inside the mouth. During exfoliative cytology, cells are harvested from the lip, tongue, mouth, or throat using a piece of cotton or a tiny wooden stick. A brush biopsy involves removing cells from the mouth with a brush that collects cells from all layers of a lesion. With both methods, the cells are then examined under a microscope to determine if they are abnormal.
Oral cancer screening is not foolproof. Test results may appear normal even if cancer exists in the mouth. A person who receives a false negative result may delay treatment because the individual does not think they have cancer. Conversely, a person may receive a false-positive test result, a reading that cancer exists when it really doesn’t. A false-positive result can cause unnecessary stress for an individual who may then undergo unnecessary follow-up testing.
A person at risk for oral cancer may benefit from a screening. An individual may have a higher chance of getting oral cancer if they engage in any form of tobacco use, such as smoking cigarettes, cigars or pipes, or chewing tobacco. Other factors that may predispose a person to oral cancer include heavy drinking and a previous diagnosis or family history of cancer. Before undergoing an oral cancer screening, an individual should check whether the test is covered by insurance. Not all insurances cover special screening tests.
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