Tongue Cancer
Tongue Cancer
Tongue cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that affects the tongue, the small bumps on the tongue called papillae, and other parts of the mouth. The tongue is a complex structure composed of multiple types of tissue, including muscle, connective tissue, and mucosa. It is also a vital organ responsible for speaking, swallowing, and chewing. As a result, tongue cancer can have significant consequences on a person’s quality of life and overall health.
Symptoms
Symptoms of tongue cancer may include pain or discomfort in the tongue, a persistent sore in the mouth that does not heal, changes in the appearance of the tongue, difficulty swallowing or speaking, and a lump or swelling in the mouth or neck.
Treatment
- Treatment Factors
– Depends on cancer stage, type, and overall health. - Common Treatments
– Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. - Surgery
– Most frequent, may involve partial or total tongue removal. Reconstructive surgery may be needed. - Radiation Therapy
– Uses high-energy radiation externally or internally to kill cancer cells. - Chemotherapy
– Involves drugs to kill cancer cells, can be used alone or with radiation therapy or surgery. - Speech and Swallowing Impact
– Surgery may significantly affect speech and swallowing abilities. - Reconstructive Surgery
– Often required after tongue surgery to restore functions. - Combination Approach
– Chemotherapy may be combined with radiation or surgery for comprehensive treatment.
Expectations
- Cancer Control
- Symptom Relief
- Preservation of Functions
- Recovery Period
- Reconstructive Surgery Outcome
Downtime
Immediate Postoperative Period:
1. Patients may spend a few days in the hospital for close monitoring.
2. Initially, there may be difficulty in speaking, and a temporary feeding tube may be required for nutrition.
3. Pain, swelling, and discomfort are common, and pain management will be a part of the recovery process.
