tongue carcinoma

What is Tongue Carcinoma?

Tongue carcinoma, also known as oral tongue cancer, is a type of cancer that originates in the tongue. The tongue is a long, flat, muscular organ located in the mouth, and it plays a crucial role in taste, speech, and swallowing.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of tongue carcinoma is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified:

• Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco are significant risk factors for developing tongue cancer.
• Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of tongue cancer.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV): Infection with high-risk HPV types has been linked to an increased risk of oral cancers, including tongue carcinoma.
• Poor oral health: Gum disease and other oral infections may contribute to the development of tongue cancer.

Symptoms

The symptoms of tongue carcinoma can vary depending on the stage and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include:

• A sore spot (ulcer) or lump on the tongue that does not go away
• Pain when swallowing
• Mouth numbness
• Bleeding from the tongue

Types of Tongue Carcinoma

There are several types of tongue carcinoma, including:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: This is the most common type of tongue cancer.
• Adenocarcinoma: A rare type of tongue cancer that originates in glandular tissue.

Treatment Options

The treatment for tongue carcinoma depends on the stage and location of the tumor. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove the tumor
• Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to treat cancer that has spread

Prognosis

The prognosis for tongue carcinoma varies depending on the stage and location of the tumor. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.

References: 1. [3] A lump on the side of the tongue that touches the teeth. 2. [4] a sore spot (ulcer) or lump on the tongue that does not go away; pain when swallowing; mouth numbness; bleeding from the tongue. 3. [5] The symptoms of tongue cancer include a painful tongue, redness, and sores or ulcers that will not heal. 4. [7] Tongue Cancer: An oral cancer where, just like other forms of cancer, the cells multiply and get out of control, forming a tumor. 5. [8] The tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) is a highly prevalent head and neck cancer often associated with tobacco and/or alcohol abuse or high-risk human papillomavirus infection.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Tongue Carcinoma

Tongue carcinoma, also known as oral cancer, can manifest in various ways. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Red or white patches on the tongue: These patches can be a sign of erythroplakia (red) or leukoplakia (white) lesions, which are precancerous conditions that can develop into cancer over time [1].
• Lump on the side of the tongue: A lump or mass on the side of the tongue, especially one that touches the teeth, can be a symptom of tongue carcinoma [2].
• Ulcers or sores that won't heal: Persistent ulcers or sores on the tongue that don't heal within a few days can be an indication of oral cancer [3][4].
• Pain when swallowing: Pain or difficulty swallowing food and liquids can be a symptom of tongue carcinoma, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like hoarseness or voice changes [5][6].
• Bleeding or easy bruising: Easy bleeding or bruising on the tongue or surrounding areas can be a sign of oral cancer [7].

It's essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, and only a medical professional can accurately diagnose tongue carcinoma. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

References:

[1] Context result 1: Red (erythroplakia) or white (leukoplakia) patches on your tongue. [2] Context result 2: A lump on the side of your tongue that touches the teeth. [3] Context result 4: The symptoms of tongue cancer include a painful tongue, redness, and sores or ulcers that will not heal. [4] Context result 7: A common first sign of tongue cancer is an ulcer, sore or bump on the tongue that doesn't heal or fade away, and it may bleed easily. [5] Context result 8: Pain when swallowing, hoarseness, voice changes, and an earache that won't go away can sometimes be symptoms of oral cancer.

Diagnostic Tests for Tongue Carcinoma

The diagnostic procedure for tongue cancer may also include special imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or a panoramic X-ray of the upper and lower jaws and sinuses [1]. These tests are used to aid in the diagnosis and determine how far the cancer has spread.

Other Diagnostic Tests

In addition to imaging tests, other diagnostic procedures may include:

• Blood tests: These tests are not used to diagnose the cancer but may be done as part of a work-up if a patient has been diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer [2].
• Biopsy: A procedure during which tissue samples are removed from the body. Typically, when tongue cancer is suspected, a biopsy is performed in the office with local anesthesia, and the sample is sent to a laboratory for examination [12].
• Specialized oral cancer tests: These tests include autofluorescence imaging, where a special device emitting a blue light is shined in the mouth, and healthy, normal tissue will essentially light up in response. If these tests come back positive, a biopsy will be performed [13].

Physical Examination

A complete physical examination and medical history evaluation from a head and neck specialist are also part of the diagnostic process for tongue cancer [5]. This includes examining the mouth and throat to look for abnormalities such as sores and white patches (leukoplakia) [10].

Oral Cancer Screening

Oral cancer screening is typically performed during a routine dental appointment. During an oral cancer screening exam, your dentist looks over the inside of your mouth to check for red or white patches or mouth sores [15]. This can be done without any special preparation.

References:

[1] The diagnostic procedure for tongue cancer may also include special imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or a panoramic X-ray of the upper and lower jaws and sinuses. [2] Other tests might be done as part of a work-up if a patient has been diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer. These tests are not used to diagnose the cancer but may be done for other reasons, such as to see if a person is healthy enough for treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. [5] The first step in diagnosing mouth cancer will be a complete physical examination and medical history evaluation from a head and neck specialist. [10] Examining the mouth and throat. In a physical exam, a member of your health care team looks ... [12] In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for tongue cancer may include one or more of the following: Biopsy: A procedure during which tissue samples are removed from the body. [13] Specialized oral cancer tests. There are several tests that are unique to oral cancer. If these tests come back positive, a biopsy will be performed. These tests include: Autofluorescence imaging: A special device emitting a blue light is shined in the mouth. Healthy, normal tissue will essentially light up in response. [15] Oral cancer screening doesn't require any special preparation. Oral cancer screening is typically performed during a routine dental appointment.

Treatment Options for Tongue Carcinoma

Tongue carcinoma, also known as oral cancer, can be treated using various methods, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

• Surgery: Surgery is often the primary treatment for tongue carcinoma. The goal of surgery is to remove the tumor and surrounding tissue affected by the cancer. [5] [8]
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used in combination with surgery or as a standalone treatment. Commonly used chemotherapy drugs include cisplatin, carboplatin, and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). [1] [2] Cisplatin is the most commonly used drug for treating oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer. [2]
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used alone or in combination with surgery to treat tongue carcinoma. It involves using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.

Targeted and Immunotherapy Drugs

In addition to traditional treatments, targeted and immunotherapy drugs are being explored for the treatment of tongue carcinoma. These include cetuximab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab. [3] Cetuximab is given by infusion into a vein (IV) and may be used in combination with other treatments.

Treatment Considerations

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the stage and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Early detection is key to effective treatment and improved outcomes. [6] Treatment options should be discussed with a healthcare team to determine the best course of action.

References: [1] - The most commonly used drug is cisplatin. [2] - Cisplatin, carboplatin, and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) are chemotherapy drugs used to treat oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer. [3] - Targeted and immunotherapy drugs include cetuximab, pembrolizumab, and nivolumab. [5] - Surgery is often the primary treatment for tongue carcinoma. [6] - Early detection is key to effective treatment and improved outcomes. [8] - Treatment options include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.

Differential Diagnosis of Tongue Carcinoma

The differential diagnosis of tongue carcinoma, also known as oral cancer, includes several entities that can mimic the clinical presentation of this condition. Here are some of the key differentials:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This is a type of skin cancer that can occur on the tongue and is often associated with smoking and alcohol consumption [1].
• Leukoplakia: A white patch or plaque on the tongue that can be benign or malignant, and is often associated with tobacco use [1].
• Carcinoma in situ: An early stage of