All You Need to Know About Tongue Cancer Causes, Sign and Symptoms and Treatments

Tongue cancer is a type of oral cancer in which an infected person starts observing an abnormal and sore growth of Squamous cells which can affect any part of the mouth lining, larynx, throat, and nose. Like any other cancer cells earlier they get detected more is the probability of getting it completely healed.

Compared to the rest of the world India faces more oral cancer cases due to a lack of awareness regarding the symptoms. These symptoms can be as small as an ulcer or bad breath which most of the time we avoid but avoiding it can turn out to be the worst nightmare. So here is some basic information about its symptoms, treatment, and remedies that one should know.

Causes and risk factors

Overall tongue cancer is a complex disease with multiple reasons leading to its development though the main reason for its perfect build-up is yet unclear. Some studies have proved probable primary reasons which are listed down, studying which individuals one can take preventive measures.

• Tobacco use – Tobacco consumption is one of the leading factors for tongue cancer. As smoking cigars, cigarettes, and pipes and as well as smokeless consumption of tobacco such as chewing or snuff tends to increase the risk of damaging the DNA cells leading to uncontrolled or abnormal growth of cells leading to the development of tumors in the affected area.

• Alcohol consumption – Similar to tobacco consumption prolonged alcohol consumption can start changing the natural formation of cells in the mouth and throat making them more prominent to get affected carcinogens which is an initial stage changing and damaging the mutation of cells. Combining both alcohol and tobacco increases the risk of having tongue cancer.

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection – Primarily HPV -16 is responsible for tongue cancer which is transmitted sexually during oral sex with an infected partner. It is important to note that not all cases of tongue cancer are associated with HPV, but the prevalence of HPV-related tongue cancer has been on the rise.

• Poor oral hygiene – Improper brushing and neglecting flossing can result in the development of bacteria that may lead to the development of tongue cancer.

Signs and symptoms

It is very necessary to be aware of the signs and symptoms of tongue cancer for early detection and prompt medical intervention. listed down are some primary symptoms of tongue cancer.

• Persistent mouth ulcers – If an individual is suffering from a constant formation of non-healing ulcers that are spreading with time then they might contact their healthcare professionals as soon as possible.

• Red or white patches – The formation of a red or white spot on the tongue which does not resolve with time and instead increases with time is a sign of tongue cancer. These patches may be flat or raised and can be found on any part of the tongue.

• Difficulty in swallowing or chewing – Tongue cancer can cause difficulty in swallowing or chewing due to constant pain, stiffness, or feeling of obstruction caused by the tumor.

• Swollen Lymph – In some cases cancer might spread in the nearby lymphatic system and result in swelling and enlargement of the lymphatic system around the neck.

How is tongue cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis of cancer involves a series of tests to know the extent and stage of cancer. Early diagnosis is crucial for better outcomes and improved prognosis. 

• Clinical examination – The initial step of diagnosis involves clinical examination by healthcare professionals where they examine the tongue, mouth, and throat for any visible signs of ulcers, abnormal growth, or change in tissues. They will also assess the neck for any swollen lymph nodes, which may indicate the spread of cancer.

• Biopsy – Biopsy is a process where samples are obtained from any suspicious area found during a clinical examination. The sample further is sent to a laboratory to determine whether the cells obtained are cancerous or not.

• Imaging test – After confirming the presence of cancerous cells techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans to determine the extent of the cancer and whether it has spread to other areas.

• Endoscopy – A process used by doctors to know the extent and exact location of the tumor by inserting a camera with the help of a thin tube.

Treatment

Tongue cancer treatment depends upon several factors such as the location of the tumor, overall health of the patient, and stage of cancer but listed down are some primary treatment options that are used widely to treat cancer.

• Surgery – Surgery is one of the safest options to eliminate cancer from the roots, where health professionals remove the cancerous tumor and surrounding tissues to eliminate the cancer cells. Surgeries are mostly preferred when tumors are solid and have not spread to other parts of the body.

• Radiation therapy – Radiation therapy includes using high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery depending upon the condition and requirement of the patient.

• Chemotherapy – This process involves the use of high-power drugs to cure the cells or limit them from spreading further. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or orally depending upon the need of the patient.

• Immunotherapy – Immunotherapy is a process that generally uses the body’s immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. It includes treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and cancer vaccines, which enhance the immune response against cancer.

Last Words

Moreover, the choice of treatment and type of diagnosis depends upon several factors such as cause, location, and extent of cancer. After treatment, it is necessary to choose the best supportive care to let the wound heal as early as possible without creating a window for any other infection along with taking regular follow-ups.