Tongue cancer is a type of head and neck cancer that results from the abnormal division and growth of cells in the tongue.

 

This rare cancer affects both visible and base parts of the tongue near the throat. Early diagnosis is critical to increasing the chances of successful treatment and avoiding complications.

 

In this article, ENT specialists at Magrabi Health discuss how tongue cancer is treated, along with its symptoms and causes.

 

Symptoms of tongue cancer

 

The symptoms of tongue cancer vary based on the tumor's location and stage. Common symptoms include:

 

• Persistent red or white patches on the tongue.
• Non-healing sores that may bleed.
• Chronic sore throat and pain in the tongue.
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing.
• Trouble moving the tongue, changes in speech quality, and numbness in the mouth.

 

Additional secondary symptoms may include:

 

• Swollen lymph nodes.
• Jaw swelling.
• Ear pain.

 

If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is essential to visit an ENT department for a thorough examination.

 

Causes of tongue cancer

 

The exact causes of tongue cancer are not fully understood. However, several factors are believed to increase the risk, including:

 

• Smoking and alcohol consumption.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is associated with a higher risk of oral and throat cancers.
• Family history of oral or throat cancers.

 

Diagnosing tongue cancer

 

The diagnostic process at Magrabi Health begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation to determine the extent of the disease. Steps include:

 

• Physical examination: To identify visible changes in the tongue and detect swollen lymph nodes.
• Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the affected area and analyzed in the lab for cancer cells.
• Imaging tests: These include CT scans and MRIs to assess the spread of the disease.

 

Treating tongue cancer

 

The treatment plan for tongue cancer depends on the tumor's size, location, and the spread of cancer cells. Treatment methods include:

 

1. Surgical intervention:

• Removal of the tumor along with some surrounding healthy tissue.
• Partial or total tongue removal for advanced cases, followed by reconstructive surgery.
• Lymph node removal to reduce the risk of cancer spreading.

 

2. Radiation therapy:

• Used after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells or as a primary treatment if surgery is not an option.

 

3. Drug therapy:

• Includes chemotherapy, targeted therapy (focusing on cancer cells), and immunotherapy.

 

Recovery after tongue cancer treatment

 

Tongue cancer treatment may negatively impact speech, swallowing ability, and overall quality of life. Rehabilitation therapy after surgery is necessary to minimize these effects. Rehabilitation involves:

 

• Speech and language therapy to regain communication skills.
• Dietary adjustments to ease swallowing.
• Pain management with prescribed medications.

 

Can tongue cancer be prevented?

 

While there is no definitive way to prevent tongue cancer, ENT specialists at Magrabi Health recommend several measures that may help reduce the risk, including:

 

• Quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol consumption.
• Getting vaccinated against HPV.
• Regular dental check-ups to detect any abnormal symptoms in the tongue.
• Following a healthy lifestyle with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

 

Frequently asked questions

 

1. Can tongue cancer be successfully treated?

• Yes, especially if it is diagnosed early. Early detection allows for a successful treatment plan and minimizes complications.

 

2. Does the HPV vaccine protect against tongue cancer?

• The HPV vaccine can reduce the risk of HPV-related cancers, including tongue cancer, but it does not eliminate the possibility of developing the disease.

 

Tongue cancer is rare; however, early diagnosis is essential to reduce complications and minimize the disease’s negative impact on quality of life.

 

Consult the specialists at the nearest Magrabi Health branch, the leading hospital for ENT diagnostics and treatments in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East.