Understanding oral cancer and tumours
Oral and maxillofacial tumours may arise in the tongue, cheek lining, gums, palate, floor of the mouth, jaws or related structures. Some lesions are benign, while others may be malignant. Accurate diagnosis is essential before treatment decisions are made.
The clinical significance of a lesion depends on its location, appearance, rate of change, symptoms and findings from appropriate investigations. A lesion that appears small may still require assessment, while many lumps and ulcers are caused by conditions that are not cancer. Examination and, where indicated, tissue diagnosis help establish the correct pathway.
For confirmed malignancy, the assessment may consider the primary site, local extent, regional lymph nodes and the patient’s general health. Treatment planning is based on the pathology and stage of disease rather than appearance alone, and may involve more than one specialty.
How the condition is evaluated
Assessment may include history, clinical examination, imaging and biopsy. Treatment depends on the lesion type, site, size, pathology and extent. Options may include monitoring, surgical removal or referral for additional treatment.
Treatment and surgical options
Surgical removal may be considered for selected tumours. Where cancer is confirmed, the treatment plan may involve tumour excision and assessment of regional lymph nodes. The need for additional treatment is determined by the clinical and pathology findings.
The extent of surgery is planned to achieve appropriate disease removal while considering the structures involved and the functions that may be affected. Depending on the case, planning may include the tongue, cheek, jaw, floor of the mouth or other adjacent tissues, together with assessment of the neck.
Before treatment, patients should have an opportunity to discuss the intended procedure, possible effects on speech, swallowing, chewing and appearance, expected hospital care, and the need for rehabilitation or additional treatment. These details vary with the diagnosis and cannot be determined without individual assessment.
What patients should know
A suspicious lesion should be assessed rather than self-diagnosed. A biopsy may be recommended when tissue confirmation is needed.
Treatment decisions are individualised. The information on this page is general and does not replace a consultation, diagnosis or personalised treatment plan. Bring relevant prescriptions, imaging, pathology reports and medical history to your consultation.