Oral Cancer Flashcards
What are potentially malignant lesions that can progress to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)
- Erythroplakia
- Leukoplakia
- Actinic cheilitis
- Lichen planus
- Submucous fibrosis
- Chronic hyperplastic candidiasis
Which potentially malignant lesion is most likely to progress to OSCC?
Erythroplakia
What is actinic cheilitis caused by?
Prolonged sun exposure.
What are the main types of lichen planus that may progress to OSCC?
Plaque-like or erosive types.
What is submucous fibrosis associated with?
Areca nut use.
Which demographic groups are most affected by OSCC?
Older males, lower socioeconomic groups, and ethnic minorities.
What causes DNA damage leading to OSCC?
Free radical damage, chemical mutagens (carcinogens), ionising radiation, and microorganisms.
How does tobacco contribute to oral cancer?
Tobacco releases at least 50 carcinogenic compounds.
How does alcohol contribute to oral cancer?
Alcohol is metabolised to acetaldehyde, which may be carcinogenic.
How does impaired liver function increase the risk of oral cancer?
It results in circulating carcinogens.
Where is oral cancer most commonly found?
Most oral cancer is on the lower lip where it may be preceeded by or associated with actinic cheilitis induced by chronic exposure to sunlight
other main sit of Oral cancer
postero-lateral border/ventrum of tongue
What are common presentations of oral cancer?
- Indurated lump/ulcer
- lump with abnormal blood vessels
- red lesion
- granular ulcer with fissuring or raised exophytic margins
- White or mixed white and red lesion
- White lesion
- non-healing extraction socket.
- Lesion fixed to deeper tissues or to overlying skin or mucosa
What are the characteristics of a cancerous lymph node?
Enlarged, hard, and fixed.
How long should a suspicious oral lesion persist before considering OSCC?
More than 3 weeks.
