What is Tongue Cancer? Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

What is Tongue Cancer?

Tongue cancer is a type of oral cancer in which the cells of the tongue grow uncontrollably, forming a tumour. The tongue starts at the hyoid bone and extends to the floor of your mouth. It is responsible for eating, swallowing and speaking.

Types of Tongue Cancer

Tongue cancer is mainly divided into two categories, based on its location. 

1. Oral Tongue Cancer: When the cancer affects the front, visible part of the tongue, it's known as oral tongue cancer.

2. Oropharyngeal Cancer: This type occurs when the cancer affects the base of your tongue, which enters the throat and is called oropharyngeal cancer. This often goes undiagnosed till it spreads.

Although various types of cancer can affect the tongue, the most common is squamous cell carcinoma. This begins at the flat, thin squamous skin cells that cover the lining of the mouth and tongue. Tongue cancer is less common than other types of cancer, but it can be aggressive if not treated earlier.

What are the Symptoms of Tongue Cancer?

The tongue cancer symptoms are not always visible and sometimes are found by a doctor during a regular dental or oral checkup. The signs will also differ as per the location of the tumour and how far the disease has progressed. Recognising early-stage tongue cancer symptoms is crucial for effective treatment. Tongue cancer shows the following symptoms:

• A red or white patch, sore or lump on the tongue or the lining of the mouth that doesn’t heal

• Pain or bleeding in the mouth or near the tongue

• Constant sore throat (chronic pharyngitis)

• Neck or ear pain

• Numbness in the tongue or nearby areas

• Difficulty in chewing or swallowing

• Hoarseness

• Swollen lymph nodes (in case of oropharyngeal cancer)

• Jaw swelling

• Weight loss

• Loose teeth

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they persist for more than a few weeks, consult a healthcare provider immediately for evaluation.

What Causes Tongue Cancer?

The exact cause of tongue cancer is still not clear, and researchers are still learning why these cells grow out of control in some people. Some research studies show that DNA mutations that affect the tongue can cause this cancer, but this has still not been confirmed. But several risk factors increase the risk of developing this condition. These are:

• Use of tobacco (smoking cigarettes, pipes, cigars, or chewing tobacco) 

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• HPV (human papillomavirus can cause base of tongue cancer)

• Genetics and family history of head and neck cancer, oral or oropharyngeal cancers

• Chewing betel

• Poor oral hygiene

• Poor dietary habits

• Age and gender (more common in males, above the age of 45 years)

• Weak immune system

What is the Treatment for Tongue Cancer?

The treatment for tongue cancer will depend on various factors such as size, location and how far the cancer cells have spread. Treating early-stage tongue cancer is easier and has high survival rates. The various treatment options include: 

1. Surgery: Tongue Cancer Surgery involves removing the tumour and its nearby tissues in the early stage. Whereas, in advanced cases, Glossectomy (a Partial or Total Glossectomy, i.e., the removal of full or part of the tongue) and, in some cases, Neck Dissection (removal of lymph nodes) may be done. Reconstructive Surgery may be needed to restore some function in cases of Glossectomy.

2. Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used in this therapy to target and kill cancer cells. This therapy may be used before surgery to reduce tumour size or after surgery to kill the remaining cells. Radiation Therapy may be used as a standalone treatment in some cases.

3. Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to destroy cancer cells before or after surgery to control cell growth in the body. Also, used in combination with Radiation Therapy in advanced cases.

4. Targeted Therapy: As the name suggests, it targets and kills cancer cells without affecting the normal cells. Mostly used in cancers that are resistant to other treatments or have spread beyond the tumour.

5. Immunotherapy: This therapy uses the body’s immune system to find and kill cancer cells. Mostly used in advanced cancers.

After the treatment, Rehabilitation may be needed, including therapies to regain speech, swallowing, speaking, etc.

Conclusion

Tongue cancer is a serious and often aggressive form of cancer, but with early detection and proper treatment, the chances of successful outcomes improve significantly. Being aware of the tongue cancer symptoms and its risk factors helps in making timely decisions. Knowing that you or your loved one has tongue cancer can be devastating. Explore the best treatment options for your condition by consulting with our experienced oncologists at Manipal Hospitals, Pune, for early diagnosis and intervention.