Tongue Neoplasm is a medical term used to describe a tumor or abnormal growth in the tongue. The spelling of this word can be broken down phonetically as /tʌŋ/ /niːoʊplæzəm/. The first syllable, "tung", is spelled with the letter "u", but is pronounced as "uh" due to the influence of the following "n" sound. The second syllable, "neo", is pronounced as "nee-oh", while the final syllable, "plasm", is spelled with a "z" sound, but pronounced as "s".
Tongue neoplasm, also known as tongue cancer or tongue carcinoma, refers to the growth of malignant or cancerous cells in the tissues of the tongue. It is a type of oral cancer that specifically affects the tongue, which is a muscular organ located in the mouth.
Tongue neoplasms can be categorized into two primary types: squamous cell carcinoma and verrucous carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type and develops from the squamous cells lining the front two-thirds of the tongue. Verrucous carcinoma, on the other hand, is a less aggressive and slower-growing form of cancer that is typically seen in older individuals who have a history of tobacco use.
The main risk factors for developing tongue neoplasms include tobacco use, both smoking and smokeless tobacco, excessive alcohol consumption, a diet deficient in fruits and vegetables, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Symptoms commonly associated with tongue neoplasms include a persistent sore or lump on the tongue, tongue pain, difficulty swallowing or chewing, numbness of the tongue, and unexplained bleeding.
Diagnosis of tongue neoplasms is typically done by a combination of physical examinations, imaging tests (such as X-rays or MRI scans), biopsy, and laboratory analysis of collected samples. Treatment options for tongue neoplasms may include surgical removal of the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches, depending on the stage and extent of the cancer.
Early detection and prompt treatment are essential for a favorable prognosis of tongue neoplasms. Regular dental check-ups, awareness of risk factors, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are crucial in preventing and managing this condition.
The word "tongue neoplasm" consists of two parts: "tongue" and "neoplasm". Here's the etymology of each:
1. Tongue:
The word "tongue" comes from Old English "tunge" or "tang", which derived from Proto-Germanic "tungō" and ultimately from Proto-Indo-European "dn̥ǵʰwéh₂s". This word has cognates in various Germanic languages, such as German "Zunge" and Dutch "tong". The exact origin beyond Indo-European is uncertain.
2. Neoplasm:
The word "neoplasm" originated from the combination of two Greek roots: "neo" meaning "new" and "plasma" meaning "formation" or "something molded".