Home » Blogs » What Are The Different Types of Oral Cancer?

What Are The Different Types of Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, involves the growth of abnormal cells within the parts of the mouth or oropharynx. Understanding the different types of oral cancer is crucial for early detection and treatment.

This article aims to shed light on the various categories of oral cancer, offering insights into their characteristics, common locations, and the importance of early diagnosis. By familiarising ourselves with these distinctions, we can foster a greater awareness and prompt action, potentially saving lives through early intervention.

What is Oral Cancer?

Oral cancer, also known as mouth cancer or oral cavity cancer, is a type of head and neck cancer. It refers to the abnormal growth of cells in any part of the mouth, including the lips, gums, tongue, inner lining of the cheeks and lips, floor of the mouth, roof of the mouth (hard palate), and back portion of the tongue (base of the tongue). The oropharynx, which is the part of the throat just behind the mouth, can also be affected by oral cancer.

The most common type of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which begins in the flat, thin cells that line the inside of the mouth and throat. Other less common types include verrucous carcinoma, minor salivary gland tumours, lymphomas, and sarcomas.

Types of Mouth Cancer by Region

Understanding the diversity of oral cancers by body part is imperative for targeted diagnostic and treatment strategies. The mouth and pharyngeal area comprise various sections, each susceptible to its distinct form of cancer.

By dissecting oral cancers based on location, healthcare professionals can adopt a more focused approach to both detection and therapy. Here are the important and commonly found types of oral cancers affecting different parts of the mouth and throat.

Lip Cancer

Lip cancer typically affects the outer layer of the lips and is among the most common forms of oral cancer. Prolonged exposure to sunlight is a significant risk factor, highlighting the importance of protective measures against UV rays.

Tongue Cancer

Cancer of the tongue can occur in two main areas: the oral tongue (the front two-thirds of the tongue) and the base of the tongue (back one-third of the tongue). Recognition of symptoms, including persistent ulcers and difficulty swallowing, is crucial for early intervention.

Salivary Gland Cancer

The salivary glands produce saliva in the mouth and throat, playing a vital role in lubricating and aiding digestion. When cancer develops in these glands, it is often as adenocarcinoma, which arises from glandular cells. This type of oral cancer can occur in any of the three main pairs of salivary glands – parotid, submandibular and sublingual.

Mouth Cancer (Oral Cavity)

The oral cavity encompasses the lips, gums, tongue, cheeks, and the roof of the mouth. Oral cavity cancer is often associated with tobacco use in its various forms. Early symptoms may present as white or red patches in the mouth or unusual bleeding.

Oropharyngeal Cancer

The back of the throat, including the base of the tongue, tonsils and soft palate, is known as the oropharynx – a common site for cancer development. Signs such as persistent sore throat and voice changes should not be taken lightly and require prompt medical attention.

Nasopharyngeal Cancer

Cancer in the nasopharynx, located behind the nose and above the back of the throat, is relatively rare but can be aggressive. This type of cancer may present as a lump in the neck or difficulty breathing through one nostril.

Sinus Cancer

The sinuses are hollow cavities in the skull that help filter and humidify air before it reaches the lungs. Cancer in the sinuses can cause blockages and infections, leading to symptoms such as sinus pressure, headaches, and vision changes.

Throat Cancer (Laryngeal Cancer)

Throat cancer typically starts in the voice box or larynx and can affect breathing, speaking, and swallowing. Risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and exposure to certain chemicals. Symptoms may include hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and persistent coughing.

Thyroid Cancer

The thyroid gland is located in the front of the neck and regulates metabolism. While most thyroid nodules are non-cancerous, some may develop into thyroid cancer. Symptoms include a lump in the neck, difficulty breathing or swallowing and voice changes. Exposure to radiation and a family history of thyroid cancer may increase the risk.

Different types of oral cancers

Exploring the various forms of oral cancer is crucial for early recognition and prompt treatment. These cancers, diverse in nature, are classified based on the location and type of cells where the cancer begins.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The most prevalent type of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which accounts for more than 90% of cases. This cancer originates in the squamous cells that line the mouth and throat, evolving from pre-cancerous lesions that may appear as white patches (leukoplakia) or red patches (erythroplakia).

Verrucous Carcinoma

Verrucous carcinoma is a less aggressive variant of squamous cell carcinoma, constituting about 5% of all oral cancers. It grows slowly and is less likely to spread to other parts of the body. This form of cancer often manifests as a white, warty growth within the oral cavity.

Minor Salivary Gland Carcinomas

Minor salivary gland carcinomas originate in the numerous small salivary glands throughout the mouth and throat. These cancers are relatively rare, accounting for only 1% of all oral cancers. They tend to grow slowly and often do not cause noticeable symptoms until they reach an advanced stage.

Lymphomas

Lymphomas are cancers that affect the lymphatic system, a vital part of the immune system. These types of cancer can occur in the oral cavity, but they are relatively uncommon compared to other forms of oral cancer.

Sarcomas

Sarcomas account for less than 1% of all oral cancers and originate in the soft tissues or bones of the mouth and throat. These cancers tend to be highly aggressive and can quickly spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly.

Melanomas

Melanomas are a type of skin cancer that can also occur in the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. Although rare, they tend to be very aggressive and have a high risk of spreading to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early.

What causes oral cancer? Who is at the risk?

Understanding the underlying causes and risk factors of oral cancers is imperative for prevention and early detection.

Primarily, lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, and exposure to second-hand smoke, significantly elevate the risk of developing oral cancers.
Excessive consumption of alcohol, particularly when combined with tobacco use, further exacerbates this risk.
Another notable risk factor is infection with certain strains of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), particularly HPV16, which has been strongly linked to oropharyngeal cancer.
Exposure to sunlight, particularly ultraviolet (UV) rays, is another risk factor, especially for lip cancer. Individuals who spend a considerable amount of time outdoors without adequate protection may be more susceptible.
A diet lacking in fruits and vegetables can increase the risk, as these foods contain crucial vitamins and antioxidants that can help prevent cancer.
Genetics also play a role; a family history of cancer can elevate an individual’s risk. Lastly, poor oral hygiene and ill-fitting dentures have been identified as potential risk factors, as they may cause chronic irritation and increase the likelihood of developing oral cancer.

It’s evident that by mitigating these risk factors through lifestyle changes and HPV vaccination, the incidence of oral cancers can be significantly reduced. Regular dental check-ups and self-examinations can aid in detecting oral cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable.

How to diagnose oral cancer?

Oral cancer can be diagnosed through various methods, including physical examinations and medical tests. During a routine dental check-up, your dentist may perform an oral cancer screening by visually inspecting your mouth and throat for any signs of abnormalities or lesions. They may also feel for lumps or irregularities in the head, neck, and face.

If any suspicious areas are found during the examination, your dentist may recommend further testing. This may involve taking a tissue sample (biopsy) of the abnormal area to be examined under a microscope for cancer cells.

Other medical tests that may be used to diagnose oral cancer include imaging tests such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. These tests can provide detailed images of the inside of the mouth and throat, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis.

When to worry about oral cancer?

If you experience any persistent symptoms or changes in your oral health, it’s important to seek medical attention and get screened for oral cancer. Some common warning signs of oral cancer include:

Painless lumps or sores in the mouth or throat
Difficulty swallowing or speaking
Persistent hoarseness or sore throat
Unexplained bleeding in the mouth
Numbness or tingling in the mouth, face, or neck
Persistent ear pain

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to schedule an appointment with your dentist or doctor for further evaluation. Keep in mind that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, but it’s always better to get them checked out by an experienced head and neck oncologist.

In conclusion,

while oral cancer can be a concerning diagnosis, early detection through regular dental check-ups and awareness of the symptoms can significantly improve the prognosis. It’s vital to listen to your body and not dismiss any persistent changes in your oral health.

If you encounter any of the symptoms mentioned, or if you’re at a higher risk for oral cancer due to factors like smoking or heavy alcohol use, seeking a consultation from an experienced head and neck oncologist becomes crucial.

They can provide a comprehensive examination, offer guidance on the necessary tests, and discuss potential treatment options if needed. Remember, prioritising your oral health is a key step towards maintaining your overall well-being.

How to self-examine Symptoms of Oral Cancer?

Is Colon Cancer Treatable?

+91 888 802 4444