Overview
Floor of the mouth cancer originates from abnormal growth in the squamous cells lining the mouth's underside. It primarily manifests as squamous cell carcinoma, characterized by changes in tissue appearance and texture under the tongue. Recognizing symptoms early is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment.
Types of Floor of the mouth cancer
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The most common type, arising from squamous cells in the mouth's floor.
- Adenocarcinoma: Less common, originating in the salivary glands under the tongue.
- Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma: Rare, involving both mucous-producing and squamous cells.
Causes of Floor of the mouth cancer
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco increases the risk.
- Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking can contribute to cancer development.
- HPV Infection: Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are associated with oral cancers.
Risk Factors of Floor of the mouth cancer
- Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after 45.
- Gender: Men are more likely to develop this cancer than women.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting oral health can elevate risk.
- Diet: A diet low in fruits and vegetables may increase susceptibility.
Symptoms of Floor of the mouth cancer
1. Persistent Sore: A sore that does not heal and may bleed.
2. Lump or Thickening: A noticeable lump or thickening under the tongue.
3. Difficulty Swallowing: Pain or discomfort when swallowing.
4. Pulsating feeling near the navel: Pain in the ears without infection.
5. Numbness or Weakness: Numbness or tingling in the mouth or tongue.
Preventions of Floor of the mouth cancer
Maintaining good oral hygiene, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and getting vaccinated against HPV can lower the risk of developing floor of the mouth cancer.
Diagnosis of Floor of the mouth cancer
- Physical Examination: Inspection of the mouth and throat.
- Biopsy: Tissue sample taken for laboratory analysis.
- Imaging Tests: CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to determine the extent of cancer spread.
- Endoscopy: Examination using a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope).
Treatment for Floor of the mouth cancer
- Surgery: Removal of cancerous tissue and nearby lymph nodes.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Medications to destroy cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: Drugs targeting specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
When to seek medical attention ?
Seek medical advice if you notice any persistent changes in your mouth, such as sores, lumps, or difficulty swallowing. Early detection improves treatment outcomes.
