Oral cancer

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Mouth anatomy

Throat anatomy

Cancer - mouth; Mouth cancer; Head and neck cancer; Squamous cell cancer - mouth

Skin lesion, lump, or ulcer:

• On the tongue, lip, or other mouth area
• Usually small
• Most often pale colored, may be dark or discolored
• May be a deep, hard edged crack in the tissue
• Usually painless initially
• May develop a burning sensation or pain when the tumor is advanced

• Tongue problems
• Swallowing difficulty
• Mouth sores
• Abnormal taste

An examination of the mouth by the health care provider or dentist shows a visible or palpable (can be felt) lesion of the lip, tongue, or other mouth area. As the tumor enlarges, it may become an ulcer and bleed. Speech difficulties, chewing problems, or swallowing difficulties may develop, particularly if the cancer is on the tongue.

A tongue biopsy, gum biopsy, and microscopic examination of the lesion confirm the diagnosis of oral cancer.

Review Date: 05/03/2006
Reviewed By: William Matsui, MD, Assistant Professor of Oncology, Division of Hematologic Malignancies, The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.