Oral cancer

Alternative names:

cancer of the mouth; mouth cancer

Symptoms:

• skin lesion/lump/ulcer
  • on the tongue, lip, or other mouth area
  • usually small
  • most often pale colored, may be dark or discolored
  • may be a deep, hard edged crack in the tissue
  • usually painless initially
  • may develop a burning sensation or pain when the tumor is advanced

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• tongue problems
• swallowing difficulty
• mouth sores
• abnormal taste

Signs and tests:

An examination of the mouth by the health care provider or dentist shows a visible and/or palpable lesion of the lip, tongue, or other mouth area. As the tumor enlarges, it may ulcerate and bleed. Speech difficulties, chewing problems, or swallowing difficulties may develop, particularly if the cancer is on the tongue.

A tongue biopsy, gum biopsy and microscopic examination of the lesion confirms the diagnosis of oral cancer.