Knowra Oral cancer Oral cancer Oral cancer is a malignant tumor arising in the tissues of the mouth, including the lips, tongue, gums, floor, or roof. Most cases are squamous cell carcinomas.
Oral cavity : The space inside the mouth, extending from the lips to the throat and containing the teeth, tongue, and palate. Its anatomical regions define where oral cancers arise.
Oral cancer screening : Examination of the mouth to identify suspicious lesions in people without recognized symptoms. Screening aims to detect lesions before advanced disease develops.
Tobacco smoking : The inhalation of smoke produced by burning tobacco products. Smoking exposes oral tissues to carcinogens that raise cancer risk.
Oropharyngeal cancer : Cancer arising in the oropharynx, including the tonsils, base of tongue, soft palate, and throat walls. Its neighboring anatomical site is distinct from the oral cavity, despite overlapping symptoms and risks.
Cervical lymph node metastasis : Spread of cancer cells to lymph nodes in the neck. Neck-node involvement is a major determinant of oral cancer stage and prognosis.
Oral squamous cell carcinoma : A cancer of squamous cells lining the mouth, accounting for most oral cavity malignancies. This is the predominant histological type of oral cancer.
Oral biopsy : Removal of oral tissue for microscopic examination to diagnose or characterize disease. A tissue biopsy usually confirms whether a suspicious lesion is cancer.
Smokeless tobacco : Tobacco products used without burning, including chewing tobacco and snuff. Use is associated with cancers of the oral cavity, especially where products contact tissue.
Lip cancer : A malignant tumor arising in the tissues of the upper or lower lip. Lip cancer is an oral cancer site with distinct patterns of exposure and treatment.
Dysphagia : Difficulty swallowing food, liquids, or saliva. Tumors and their treatment can impair swallowing.
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