Q&A: Insights on Oral Cavity Cancer Treatment
Oral cavity cancer is one of the most prevalent types of head and neck malignancies. Over 90% of cancers in this region originate from the thin, flat squamous cells that line the structures within the mouth, such as the tongue, cheek lining, palate or gum.
Dr. Caitlin McMullen addressed questions about the diagnosis and treatment of oral cavity cancers, highlighting Moffitt’s multidisciplinary approach to managing these cases.
1. How are these cancers diagnosed?
Signs of oral cancer include a non-healing and/or growing sore, that can bleed and may be painful. A patient should seek medical attention from a primary care physician, dentist, or ear nose & throat physician for initial evaluation and appropriate referrals. A biopsy is typically required to confirm the diagnosis.
The signs of oral cancer can vary based on the cancer’s stage and specific location within the mouth. Usually, symptoms involve one or more of the following:
- A red, pink, gray or white patch on the inside of the mouth, which can be flat or slightly raised and may bleed when scraped
- A sore on the lip or inside of the mouth that doesn’t heal
- An unusual lump or growth
- Areas of the lip, gums or mouth that are rough or crusty
- Loosened teeth
- Unexplained pain or numbness around the mouth, neck or face
- Frequent bleeding in the mouth
- Earaches
- Chronic bad breath
- Painful or difficult swallowing
2. What are the causes and risk factors of oral cavity cancer?
Cancer occurs as a result of changes to genes that regulate cell division. Research shows these changes can be triggered by genetic conditions, environmental factors, harmful behaviors such as smoking or a combination of all three, although the exact cause of cancer is unclear in many cases.
Cancers that form in the oral cavity have been strongly linked to the use of tobacco products. Pipe and cigarette smoking pose a greater risk for cancers of the lips, while oral tobacco products like chewing tobacco have been linked with oral cancers of the gums, cheeks and the inner surface of the lips.
In addition to tobacco and alcohol use, other risk factors for oral cancers include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Poor nutrition
- Certain genetic syndromes, including Fanconi anemia and dyskeratosis congenita
Receiving regular oral cancer exams from a dental or cancer specialist is highly recommended to identify oral cavity tumors and abnormalities in an early stage when they are easier to treat.
3. How are oral cavity cancers treated and what distinguishes Moffitt's approach to their treatment?
Oral cancers can be aggressive, so treatment by a highly experienced surgeon and a multidisciplinary treatment at the first diagnosis is extremely important. This is essential for even seemingly small or early-stage oral cancers. Outcomes are linked to the experience of the treating physician.
Moffitt's head and neck physicians are extremely experienced and on the leading edge of management strategies. Patients are cared for by an entire team that works together, which is not offered at most other institutions. This includes a radiation oncologist, surgeon, medical oncologist, specialized pathologist and radiologist, social workers, speech therapists, nutritionists, physical therapists, highly experienced specialized nurses and others. This level of care optimizes both cancer and quality of life outcomes.
If you’d like to refer a patient to Moffitt for oral cavity cancer treatment, complete our online form or contact a physician liaison for assistance. As part of our efforts to shorten referral times as much as possible, online referrals are typically responded to within 24 - 48 hours.
