Understanding Mouth Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Strategies

Mouth cancer results from rapid, uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the oral cavity. When the cancer spreads to nearby areas like the neck or other parts of the head, it is classified as metastatic mouth cancer.

In advanced stages, these mutated cells invade healthy tissues and can disseminate through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Often, diagnosis occurs late, which diminishes treatment success rates and survival odds.

Key symptoms of mouth cancer include:

• Persistent sore throat and irritation
• Frequent bleeding ulcers in the mouth
• Unusual growths on the lining of the mouth
• Loose teeth due to gum or tissue damage
• Pain in the jaw from tissue deterioration

These signs typically appear on lips, gums, tongue, palate, or floor of the mouth. Early detection during routine dental exams can improve outcomes, but symptoms tend to worsen as the disease advances to lymph nodes. At this stage, prognosis often worsens due to aggressive tissue destruction.

The diagnosis involves physical examination followed by tissue biopsies and laboratory tests to assess the extent of spread. Sentinel lymph node biopsy is frequently used to evaluate metastasis. Advanced imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans help determine the cancer stage and guide treatment options.

The choice of treatment depends on the cancer’s size, location, and stage. Early-stage cases often benefit from surgical removal of the tumor and reconstructive procedures. For more advanced cancers, radiation therapy employs high-energy rays to target and destroy malignant cells. Chemotherapy, utilizing potent drugs, is another option to inhibit tumor growth and prevent further spread. Targeted therapies may also be combined with chemo or radiation to improve the effectiveness of treatment.