General Information About Oral Cancer
Oral cancer includes malignant tumors, generally of the squamous cell carcinoma type, developing in the tongue, lips, gums, inner cheeks, or palate. Unhealing sores in the mouth, white/red patches, and difficulty swallowing are the most common symptoms. Tobacco use and HPV infection are among the significant risk factors. When detected at an early stage, the chance of success with surgical and oncological treatments is quite high.
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
You can find detailed information about the condition under the headings below.
What is Oral Cancer?
It is the abnormal alteration of cells in the lips, tongue, inner surface of the cheeks, palate, or gums within the oral cavity, transforming into a malignant mass (cancer).
What are the Risk Factors?
The use of tobacco products (cigarettes, pipes), excessive alcohol consumption, HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection, chronic intraoral trauma, and poor oral hygiene are the primary risks.
What are the Symptoms?
Sores inside the mouth or on the lip that do not heal for more than 2 weeks, white or red patches, painless lumps, and difficulty chewing and swallowing are the most important symptoms.
What are Leukoplakia and Erythroplakia?
White patches (leukoplakia) or red patches (erythroplakia) seen on the oral mucosa that cannot be wiped away are important warning signs of precancerous tissue changes.
How is it Diagnosed?
A definitive diagnosis is made through a detailed intraoral examination by ENT or Maxillofacial Surgery specialists and the pathological examination of a tissue sample (biopsy) taken from the suspicious area.
How is it Treated?
Depending on the stage and spread of the tumor, surgical removal of the mass, clearing of lymph nodes, radiotherapy (radiation treatment), and chemotherapy options are applied together or individually.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
