Tongue cancer occurs when cells on the surface of the tongue grow uncontrollably and become malignant. Treatment methods depend on several factors such as the size and location of the tumor, the extent of its spread, and the patient's overall health.

Doctor Nguyen Tien Si, from the Oncology Department of Tam Anh General Hospital in TP HCM, outlines common treatment methods for tongue cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, systemic therapy, or a combination of these.

Surgery

Depending on the extent of the tumor's spread, patients may undergo surgery to remove part or all of their tongue. Lymph nodes in the neck may also be removed to reduce the risk of recurrence. Reconstructive surgery, using healthy tissue from other body parts, can help restore speech and swallowing abilities, improve quality of life, and address cosmetic concerns.

Doctor Si consults with a patient. Photo illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

Radiation therapy

This method uses ionizing radiation to destroy cancer cells. It can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or afterward to eliminate remaining cancer cells. In cases where the cancer has spread extensively and surgery is not an option, radiation therapy can control the disease and alleviate symptoms. It can also be combined with chemotherapy for enhanced effectiveness.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells, but it can also affect healthy cells, causing side effects. It's often used in advanced stages when the tumor has spread significantly or is inoperable. Chemotherapy can be administered before or after surgery or in combination with radiation therapy to improve treatment outcomes. For metastatic cancer, it helps manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and enhance the patient's quality of life.

Targeted therapy

This method is typically used for recurrent or metastatic tongue cancer, or when the tumor is advanced and has spread beyond the initial site, making surgery unsuitable. Targeted therapy employs specific drugs that directly attack the unique molecules or biological mechanisms of cancer cells, minimizing harm to surrounding healthy cells. Side effects may include diarrhea, fatigue, and skin inflammation.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy stimulates the body's immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. It can be used alone or in conjunction with other treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Potential side effects include rash, itching, redness, swelling, and less commonly, pneumonia, hepatitis, or endocrine disorders.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to successful outcomes for tongue cancer. Regular health checkups and oral cancer screenings are recommended, especially for those at higher risk, such as smokers, drinkers, or individuals with mouth sores or tongue ulcers that don't heal within two weeks, or experience unusual bleeding from the tongue.

Bao Tram