Floor of the Mouth Cancer
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Floor of the Mouth Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments, and More
The human mouth is susceptible to cancer, like any other part of the body. Mouth cancers typically begin in the inner cheek, gums, hard palate, lips, tongue, and floor of the mouth cancer is a major concern. Floor of the mouth cancer deserves more attention, and this post aims to shed light on its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Read on to learn more.
What is Floor of the Mouth Cancer?
Floor of the mouth cancer is a type of oral cancer that forms in the tissues of the mouth, primarily the area underneath the tongue. As a subset of oral cavity cancers, this disease can affect the functionality of the mouth and impair speaking or swallowing abilities.
This specific cancer typically forms in the squamous cells, which are thin and flat cells located in the lining of the mouth. The term for cancers that involve these cells is squamous cell carcinoma.
Although a serious disease, floor of the mouth cancer is treatable, and sometimes people mistake this cancer for a canker sore, which is why it’s important to see a doctor if you believe you have a sore that simply won’t heal. Floor of the mouth cancer symptoms can be subtle at first, but recognizing them early is key.
Symptoms of Floor of the Mouth Cancer
Early stages of floor of the mouth cancer are usually asymptomatic, meaning there may be no noticeable symptoms. As the cancer progresses, several floor of the mouth cancer symptoms may appear. The most common signs and symptoms include:
- Persistent sores in the mouth
- Sores continue to grow larger
- Painless ulcers or lumps in the mouth
- Pain or swelling in the mouth or jaw
- Difficulty moving the tongue and jaw
- Difficulty and pain when swallowing
- Loose teeth or pain around teeth
- Dentures no longer fit
- Ear pain
- Weight loss
- Painful swelling in the neck
- Persistent white, dark, or red patches in the mouth
Causes of Floor of the Mouth Cancer
The main cause of floor of the mouth cancer is the development of mutations in the DNA of cells located under the tongue. These mutations interrupt the normal process of cell growth, leading to uncontrolled cell multiplication and the formation of tumors. While genetics may play a role, the exact reasons behind these DNA mutations are still unclear.
Floor of the mouth cancer may develop as a result of inherited gene mutations or environmental factors, such as tobacco use or alcohol consumption.
Risk Factors for Floor of the Mouth Cancer
While anyone can develop floor of the mouth cancer, certain risk factors increase susceptibility:
- Being male
- Smoking and tobacco use (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco)
- Frequent and heavy alcohol consumption
- Exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly strains 16 and 18
- Weakened immune system due to illnesses such as HIV
- Being an organ transplant recipient
- Overweight or obesity
How is Floor of the Mouth Cancer Diagnosed?
Diagnosing floor of the mouth cancer may include several procedures:
- Physical Exam of Mouth and Neck: A doctor uses a tongue depressor to examine the floor of the mouth for any lumps or sores. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck are also checked.
- Biopsy: A sample of suspicious tissue is taken and sent to a lab to confirm if it is cancerous.
- Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRI, X-rays, and PET scans can help determine the size and spread of the tumor.
Stages of Floor of the Mouth Cancer
Once diagnosed, the stage of the floor of the mouth cancer is determined. The stages help decide the best treatment plan:
- Stage 0: Abnormal cells with the potential to become cancerous are present in the lining of the tissues.
- Stage 1: The tumor is less than 2 cm and has not spread.
- Stage 2: The tumor is larger than 2 cm but smaller than 4 cm.
- Stage 3: The tumor is larger than 4 cm and has spread to a nearby lymph node.
- Stage 4: Advanced cancer that has spread to distant tissues.
How is Floor of the Mouth Cancer Treated?
Treatment of floor of the mouth cancer depends on the stage of the disease. Common treatments include:
- Surgery: Often used in the early stages. It may involve removing the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue around it. In more advanced stages, surgery may involve removing parts of the tongue, jaw, or other tissues.
- Chemotherapy: Medications to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy in Dubai is often combined with surgery or radiation therapy.
- Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. Sometimes used in combination with chemotherapy.
- Targeted Therapy: Medications that target specific characteristics of cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells more effectively.
How to Lower the Risk of Floor of the Mouth Cancer?
You can reduce your risk of developing floor of the mouth cancer by:
- Quitting smoking or avoiding all forms of tobacco use
- Reducing alcohol consumption
- Receiving the HPV vaccine
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- Regular dental exams and check-ups
Treatment of Floor of the Mouth Cancer at King’s Cancer Care Center
Floor of the mouth cancer is a treatable condition when diagnosed early. At King’s Cancer Care Center in Dubai, our multidisciplinary team of experts provides the most advanced care. We offer a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for patients with floor of the mouth cancer. With state-of-the-art facilities and a compassionate team, we ensure that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs.
As the Best oncology hospital in Dubai, King’s Cancer Care Center in Dubai is committed to providing the highest quality treatment and care for floor of the mouth cancer patients. Schedule an appointment today to learn more about our advanced treatment options.
