Most tongue cancers begin in the cells that cover the surfaces of your tongue. Tests to diagnose oral cancer include a physical exam, endoscopy, biopsy, and imaging tests.
Symptoms
- White or red patches in your mouth
- A mouth sore that won't heal
- Bleeding in your mouth
- Problems or pain with swallowing
Treatment
Treatments may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Some patients have a combination of treatments.
Risk Factors
The risk of developing tongue cancer is higher if you are male, use tobacco, drink lots of alcohol, have HPV, or have a history of head or neck cancer.
Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition
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Head and Neck Cancer Program
A program within the Cancer Center providing diagnosis and treatment for head and neck cancers, including early-stage, recurrent, and aggressive disease, with coordinated care to …
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Oral Maxillofacial Surgery Oncology
A program within the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery providing diagnosis and treatment for oral cancers, including lip, tongue, gum, cheek, and salivary gland cancers.
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Radiation Oncology
An oncology department using advanced radiation therapy to treat cancer, with personalized planning and care to target tumors while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.
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Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
A program within the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery providing oral surgery and jaw surgery for conditions affecting the head, neck, face, and jaw, including trauma, …
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Maxillofacial Prosthodontics and Oral Oncology Clinic
A clinic within the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery providing prosthodontics and maxillofacial surgery care, including oral oncology services to restore oral function…