Floor of Mouth Cancer

This page provides material about floor of mouth cancer, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment. The information has been compiled with the help of MACS Clinic and Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a well-known surgical oncologist in Bangalore, India. Dr. Nayak has expertise in treating oral cancers and is also recognized for his pioneering approaches in minimally invasive cancer surgeries, which focus on giving the best results while preserving function and improving quality of life.
Floor of Mouth Cancer

What is Floor of Mouth Cancer?

Floor of mouth cancer are cancerous tumors that arise within the soft tissues of the bottom of the tongue. This particular area is of vital importance in speech, swallowing, and salivation; thus, any cancer that arises here can be dramatically life-altering.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, renowned for comprehensive head and neck surgery, says:

“Floor of mouth cancer most often is a squamous cell carcinoma, developing in the thin, flat cells that cover the interior of the mouth. It may invade neighboring tissues, lymph nodes, or other organs if not treated in its early phases.”

Early detection of oral cancers can significantly contribute to the success of the treatment. Advances in surgical techniques enable us to remove the tumors with the least loss of function and quality of life.”

Floor of Mouth Cancer – Symptoms

Identifying the initial symptoms of floor of mouth cancer can greatly increase the chances of successful treatment. Most common signs include:
A chronic ulcer or sore that fails to heal.
Red or white spots in the mouth
Trouble moving the tongue or speaking
Loose teeth or difficulty wearing dentures

Swelling or lump under the tongue

Spontaneous bleeding in the oral cavity.
Floor of Mouth Cancer - Symptoms

As such symptoms might be mistaken for manifestations of lesser illnesses, medical attention is very important if the symptoms last longer than two weeks.

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Have you noticed any recurring symptoms? It is recommended to consult a specialist early for an early diagnosis and proper treatment.

Floor of Mouth Cancer – Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors and habits can play a significant role in the occurrence of floor of mouth cancer:
Smoking and chewing of tobacco are the main causes of oral.
Heavy drinking can irritate the oral mucosa and enhance the carcinogenic action of tobacco.

The human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV-16, has been recognized as a significant risk factor for most oral cancers.

Tissue destruction due to ill-fitting dentures or poor oral hygiene can result in chronic irritation and lead to cancer development.
Long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation can increase the risk of oral cancers, particularly of the lips and the surrounding area.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak, a seasoned surgical oncologist in Bangalore, underscores the following:

“Knowing the underlying reasons behind this condition can assist in making well-informed decisions. Lifestyle modification and education can lower the prevalence of oral cancers. Abstinence from tobacco, alcohol moderation, and good oral hygiene are the most important preventive factors.”

Types of Floor of Mouth Cancer

Cancer of the floor of the mouth is classified based on the cells where the malignancy arises:

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Most common form, originating from the thin, flat cells that cover the mouth.

Sarcomas

Tumors that develop in connective tissue like muscle, fat, or nerves.

Adenocarcinoma

An infrequent form occurring in the glandular cells for saliva production.

Melanoma

An aggressive but rare type of cancer that develops from pigment cells.

Floor of Mouth Cancer – Diagnosis

Early detection is important for proper treatment. The most common methods used are as follows:
Physical examination: A physician inspects the oral cavity for visible abnormalities, masses, or ulcerations.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is excised to examine under the microscope for evidence of malignancy.
Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans assist in determining the tumor size and whether it has spread.
Endoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera helps examine the deeper parts of the oral cavity and throat.
Floor of Mouth Cancer - Diagnosis

Management and Treatment of Floor of Mouth Cancer

Treatment depends on the stage and size of the cancer. The standard approaches include:

Surgery

  • In the case of early cancers, surgery is performed to remove tumors while maintaining function.
  • In very advanced cases where the cancer has invaded a large area, removal of part of the jawbone (mandibulectomy) might be necessary.
  • Reconstructive surgery involves tissue grafts or prostheses to rebuild the jaw and restore function and appearance.

Radiation Therapy

High-energy beams kill cancer cells:

  • either as the main treatment for smaller tumors
  • or following surgery to destroy any remaining cancerous tissue.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy employs strong drugs to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. It is usually employed in later stages or along with radiation therapy for enhanced efficacy.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted medications target specific molecules responsible for cancer growth, reducing harm to normal cells. The treatment is usually given in combination with other options.

Immunotherapy

This treatment enhances the patient’s immune system to identify and target cancer cells. It works best for cancers that recur or are in advanced stages and are not easily treated with other options.

According to the highly-skilled MACS Oncologist Team:

“The technology involved in minimally invasive surgery, such as robotic surgery, allows for more accurate removal of cancers and easier and quicker recovery. In advanced cases, reconstruction is crucial in restoring both function and aesthetics, significantly improving a patient’s quality of life.”

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Worried about treatment? Talk to an expert to find the best solution for your condition.

Floor of Mouth Cancer – Stages

Staging tells the amount of cancer present and guides treatment.

Stage 0 (Carcinoma in Situ) – The cancer exists only in the top layer of cells.

Stage 1 & 2 – Tumors are small and localized in the mouth.

Stage 3 – The tumor has grown in size and can have spread to nearby lymph nodes.

Stage 4 – Cancer is characterized by its presence in distant tissues or organs.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

Inclusion of preventive measures significantly lowers floor of mouth cancer threats:
Quit smoking and avoid all forms of tobacco.
Brush teeth regularly and visit the dentist frequently.
Obtain HPV vaccination.
Lower alcohol consumption and eat healthy.

Brush teeth regularly and visit the dentist frequently.

FAQs

What are the primary symptoms of floor of mouth cancer?

Early symptoms are:

  • persistent ulcers
  • red or white patches
  • swelling under the tongue
  • unexplained pain

If any of these last more than two weeks, see a doctor.

What is the outlook for floor of the mouth cancer?
Survival depends on the stage at diagnosis. Survival is improved in the case of early-stage cancers, and more intensive treatment is needed in advanced stages.
Is surgery always required for floor of mouth cancer treatment?
Surgery is usually the first line of treatment for stage-one cases; however, radiation or chemotherapy may be employed based on how extensive and where the cancer is.
Is floor of mouth cancer able to metastasize to other body areas?
If not treated in time, it can spread to surrounding tissues, lymph nodes, and distant organs through the bloodstream or lymph.
What lifestyle modifications can help prevent floor of mouth cancer?

Lifestyle modifications to help decrease floor of mouth cancer include:

  • Prevention of tobacco use
  • Limiting alcohol intake
  • Good oral hygiene

Disclaimer: The information shared in this content is for educational purposes only and not for promotional use.