Cancer of the tongue, also known as tongue cancer, is a malignant condition characterized by the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells in the tongue. It is categorized as a type of oral or mouth cancer, specifically affecting the oral cavity's tongue portion.
Tongue cancer typically arises from the squamous cells lining the surface of the tongue, known as squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cancer can occur on the front, back, or sides of the tongue. It is often associated with certain risk factors, including tobacco use (such as smoking or chewing tobacco), excessive alcohol consumption, a diet low in fruits and vegetables, poor oral hygiene, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and a family history of the disease.
Symptoms of tongue cancer may include a persistent sore or ulcer on the tongue that fails to heal, red or white patches (leukoplakia) on the tongue, pain or difficulty in swallowing, a lump or mass in the tongue, persistent tongue numbness, bleeding from the tongue, and unexplained weight loss. If left untreated or undiagnosed, tongue cancer can spread (metastasize) to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body.
Diagnosis of tongue cancer typically involves a thorough examination of the tongue and oral cavity by a healthcare professional, often accompanied by imaging tests such as X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scan. The definitive diagnosis is made through a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is taken from the suspected area of cancer and examined under a microscope.
Treatment options for cancer of the tongue may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the stage and location
