Oral (Mouth) Cancer Stages: What You Need to Know

Fighting cancer requires strong willpower and dedication. Cancer awareness is required for better management of symptoms and speedy recovery.

Oral or mouth cancer occurs in the oral cavity, including the gums, lips, tongue, and inner cheeks or upper + lower jaw. It begins with the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can form tumours. Early detection is important for successful outcomes, timely intervention, and better treatment options. Symptoms of oral cancer consist of persistent ulcer sores, pain, bleed, difficulty in mouth opening, neck swelling. However, these symptoms can also be present in benign oral cavity tumours.

What are the Stages of Oral Cancer?

The stages of oral cancer are as follows

Stage 0 (Carcinoma in Situ)

Stage 0, carcinoma in situ or pre-cancer, is the earliest oral cancer stage. It involves abnormal cells in the lining of the mouth or lips that have the potential to become serious. Diagnosis typically includes a physical exam, biopsy, and sometimes imaging tests to confirm the presence of these abnormal cells.

Stage I

In Stage I, the cancer is in its very early phase, with a tumour measuring up to 2 centimetres that has not spread to the lymph nodes. Diagnosis is made through a physical examination and a biopsy, often supported by imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans or MRI scans.

Stage II

Stage II oral cancer occurs when a tumour is larger than two but not more than four centimetres and has no lymph node involvement. Doctors confirm the diagnosis through physical exams, biopsies, and imaging tests.

Stage III

Stage III oral cancer involves a tumour larger than 4 centimetres or has spread to one lymph node in the neck. It can cause symptoms like pain, difficulty swallowing, or changes in the mouth. Diagnostic evaluations include physical exams, biopsies, and imaging tests such as CT scans or MRIs.

Stage IV-A

Stage IV-A is an advanced stage where the cancer has spread beyond the mouth to nearby tissues, such as the jaw or other parts of the oral cavity. It may also involve one large lymph node on the same side of the neck as the tumour.

Key Indicators

• Tumours may spread to nearby tissues or organs.
• Presence of one large lymph node (more than 3 centimetres) on the same side of the neck.
• Symptoms might include severe pain, difficulty swallowing, and noticeable changes in the mouth, such as unexplained bleeding or the appearance of red or white patches on the mouth and throat.

Diagnostic Evaluations

• Imaging tests: CT scans, MRIs, or PET scans to assess the extent of cancer spread.
• Biopsy: Further examination of tissue samples to confirm cancer characteristics.
• Physical examination: Detailed checkup to identify symptoms and cancer progression.

Stage IV-B

Stage IV-B is an even more advanced stage where the cancer may have spread to multiple lymph nodes on the same side of the neck or to the opposite side. It might also involve distant metastasis to other parts of the body.

Symptoms and Indicators

• Cancer may have spread to nearby tissues or distant organs, such as the lungs.
• Symptoms include severe pain, significant difficulty in swallowing, and possible swelling in the neck or face.
• Visible growths or lesions that have spread beyond the oral cavity.

Diagnostic Evaluations:

• Imaging tests: CT scans, PET scans, or X-rays to detect cancer spread to distant organs.
• Biopsy: For examining tissue from different areas to confirm cancer spread.
• Physical examination: Through assessment of cancer’s spread and effects on the body.

Stage IV-C

Stage IV-C is the most advanced form of oral cancer stage. It indicates that cancer has spread to distant parts of the body beyond the oral cavity.

Clinical Manifestations

• The cancer may have metastasised to organs like the lungs or liver.
• Symptoms can include severe pain, persistent sores, significant weight loss, and breathing difficulties.

Diagnostic Evaluations

• Imaging tests: Advanced imaging techniques like PET scans to identify distant metastasis.
• Biopsy: Tissue samples from distant sites to confirm metastasis.
• Physical examination: A detailed evaluation assesses the extent of cancer spread and its systemic effects.

Importance of Regular Checkups

Dental professionals play an important role in the early detection of oral cancer stages by identifying potential symptoms before they become severe. BLK-MAX offers complete oral cancer screenings, including visual exams and biopsies, to detect early signs of mouth cancer.

At BLK-MAX, you can schedule annual checkups for complete oral cancer screenings. Regular visits can help in the timely detection and prevention of oral cancer. You can also get expert evaluations, timely care, and the proper treatment for your oral health needs at BLK Max.

Conclusion

Oral cancer stages can have serious consequences if not detected early with effective treatment. BLK-MAX offers oral cancer screenings to catch early signs and provide necessary treatments. You can also get expert care and preventive services for oral health to get the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the common symptoms of oral cancer?

Common symptoms of oral cancer include non-healing sores, red or white patches in the mouth, pain while chewing or swallowing, and persistent bad breath. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to get a checkup.

2. Who is at risk of developing oral cancer?

Individuals who are at a higher risk for oral cancer are those who smoke, consume alcohol excessively, or use betel nuts. Poor oral hygiene and HPV infection can also increase risk.

3. How is oral cancer diagnosed?

Oral cancer is diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, biopsy of suspicious lesions, and imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs.

4. What are the treatment options for oral cancer?

Treatments for oral cancer usually include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy.

5. How long does oral cancer treatment typically last?

The duration of oral cancer treatment varies based on the stage and type of cancer. Treatments may range from a few weeks to several months.

6. What are the long-term effects of oral cancer?

Long-term effects of oral cancer can include changes in speech, difficulty swallowing, and possible disfigurement from surgery.

7. How often should oral cancer screenings be done?

Oral cancer screenings should be done annually, especially for high-risk individuals.

8. Can oral cancer spread to other parts of the body?

Yes. Oral cancer can spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, and distant organs.

9. How is surgery used in treating oral cancer?

Surgery for oral cancer involves removing the tumour and, if necessary, affected tissues or lymph nodes.

10. Is there a link between oral cancer and HPV (human papillomavirus)?

Yes, HPV, especially types 16 and 18, is linked to oral cancers. BLK-MAX offers HPV testing and vaccination as part of its preventive care services to help reduce the risk of oral cancer.

11. Who treats oral cancer?

Oncologists and oral surgeons treat oral cancer. BLK Max Hospital has specialised teams of doctors who diagnose and treat oral cancer, offering expert care throughout your treatment procedures.