Oral Cancer Flashcards
Who is commoly affected by oral cancer?
Increasing prevalance with increasing age however there is an increasing incudence seen in younger people
What causes oral cancer?
Tobacco Alcohol Diet and nutrition HPV Candida UVL
What chemicals present in tobacco smoke particulary cause oral cancer?
Arsenic
Cyanide
The deficiency of what vitamins can make oral cancer more likey?
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Iron
Cause atrophy in the oral mucosa, and therefore the barrier is not as good and carcinogens can affect the stem cells in the gingiva
Where are the high risk sites for oral cancer?
Soft (non keratinizing) sites such as ventral tongue, lateral tongue and floor of mouth
What are the rare sites for oral cancer?
Dorsal tongue
Hard palate
What are the warning signs for oral cancer?
Red/white or red and white lesions Ulcer Numb feeling in lip/face Unexplainied pain in mouth or neck Change in voice Dysphagia
What are other orofacial manifestations of cancer?
Drooping eye lid or facial palsy (malignant neoplasia in parotid gland) Fracture of mandible Double vision Blocked or bleeding from nose Facial swelling
What four key questions should be asked when a suspicious lesion is present?
How long has the lesion been present
Is it painful (usually no pain with malignant ulcers)
Does the patient smoke and/or drink
What colour is the lesion
