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Mouth cancer can affect any part of the mouth and oral cavity, and is often caused by excessive alcohol consumption or tobacco use. It requires surgery and follow-up treatment, and symptoms include lesions, patches, and discomfort. Treatment options depend on the location and severity of the tumor, and may involve chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, which can have significant side effects.
Mouth cancer includes those cancers that can affect any part of the mouth and oral cavity. Those who consume excessive amounts of alcohol or regularly use tobacco products are at increased risk of developing some form of oral cancer. As part of the head and neck cancer classification, mouth cancer generally requires surgery and follow-up treatment that may involve chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or both.
There is no known, definitive cause for the cell mutation involved in the development of mouth cancer. Often originating in squamous cells, cell mutations replicate out of control and accumulate to form a tumor. Oral cancer may initially show up in a single area, such as the inner cheek or lower lip, before metastasizing to other parts of the oral cavity.
Abnormal changes in the mouth, such as tissue discoloration or sore formation, may initially be evaluated during a consultation and physical exam with a doctor or dentist. A biopsy is usually done on the abnormal tissue to determine whether or not the changes are due to a malignant tumor. Once discovered, a malignant tumor will generally require further diagnostic and laboratory tests to determine its staging or severity.
Individuals who develop mouth cancer will show a variety of signs and symptoms that usually depend on the location and invasiveness of the cancer. Early signs of mouth cancer can include single or multiple lesions that don’t heal, red or white patches inside the oral cavity, and jaw or mouth discomfort when swallowing or chewing. Some may develop a raised area, or lump, inside the mouth or experience a persistent sore throat.
Treatment options for mouth cancer also depend entirely on the staging and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the individual. Almost all treatment approaches involve surgical excision of the tumor and affected tissue in the surrounding area. Aggressive tumors may require the removal of lymph nodes and additional portions of muscle or jawbone. Those who undergo such extensive surgery often require reconstructive surgery.
After the cancerous tissues are removed, individuals will typically be given chemo and/or radiation therapy to eradicate any remaining cancerous cells and inhibit the growth of new ones. Both oral and intravenous administration of chemotherapy carry a significant risk of side effects which can include pronounced fatigue, nausea and vomiting. Those who undergo radiation therapy can develop side effects that can include jaw discomfort, inflammation and irritation of tissue at the site of administration, and dry mouth.
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