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Sindhudurg, Maharashtra – 416520

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Buccal Mucosa Cancer

Buccal Mucosa Cancer refers to cancer that originates in the inner lining of the cheeks. At Konkan Cancer Hospital (Konkan Cancer Center), we specialize in the early diagnosis and treatment of this aggressive yet manageable oral cancer.

Buccal Mucosa Cancer 

Overview of Buccal Mucosa Cancer

Buccal Mucosa Cancer refers to cancer that originates in the inner lining of the cheeks. At Konkan Cancer Hospital (Konkan Cancer Center), we specialize in the early diagnosis and treatment of this aggressive yet manageable oral cancer. Most commonly classified as squamous cell carcinoma, this condition develops when the squamous cells inside the cheek undergo abnormal changes and begin to grow uncontrollably. If untreated, these cancer cells can infiltrate surrounding tissues or spread to the lymph nodes and distant organs.

This cancer type is especially common in regions where tobacco chewing, smoking, and poor oral hygiene are prevalent—making awareness and early intervention crucial.

Causes & Risk Factors

At Konkan Cancer Center, we educate patients about the most researched and evidence-backed causes of Buccal Mucosa Cancer:

  • Tobacco Use (Smoking & Smokeless): A major cause linked to genetic mutations in cheek cells.

  • Alcohol Abuse: Especially dangerous when combined with tobacco, increasing cancer risk exponentially.

  • HPV Infection: Human Papillomavirus (particularly HPV-16) has been linked with oral cancers.

  • Poor Dental Hygiene: Chronic irritation due to broken teeth, rough dentures, or infections increases risk.

  • Age & Gender: Mostly affects males above 40 years.

  • Sun Exposure: Excessive UV exposure increases risk, especially if the lips and buccal region are involved.

  • Dietary Deficiencies: Lack of vitamins A and C may also contribute to mucosal vulnerability.

  • Family History of Cancer: Genetic predisposition can increase susceptibility.

Stages & Grades of Buccal Mucosa Cancer

Cancer Staging

Understanding the stage of the cancer helps us determine the most effective treatment plan at Konkan Cancer Center.

  • Stage I: Tumor ≤ 2 cm, no lymph node involvement.

  • Stage II: Tumor 2–4 cm, no nodal spread.

  • Stage III: Tumor > 4 cm or spread to a single lymph node.

  • Stage IV: Spread to deeper tissues, multiple lymph nodes, or distant organs (metastasis).

Tumor Grading
  • Grade 1 (Low): Cancer cells resemble normal ones; slower growth.

  • Grade 2 (Moderate): Intermediate cell abnormality.

  • Grade 3 (High): Highly abnormal cells with fast growth and spread.

Types of Buccal Mucosa Cancer Treated at Konkan Cancer Center

  • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Most common type affecting the buccal lining.

  • Verrucous Carcinoma: A slow-growing but locally aggressive variant.

  • Minor Salivary Gland Tumors: Rare cancers starting in small glands within the cheek lining.

Common Signs & Symptoms

Seek expert care at Konkan Cancer Center if you notice:

  • Persistent sores or ulcers on the inner cheek

  • Red or white patches that don’t heal

  • Pain in the mouth or cheek

  • Difficulty chewing or opening the mouth fully

  • Lump or swelling in the cheek or jaw

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Numbness inside the mouth

  • Loose teeth or denture fitting problems

  • Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck

When to See a Specialist

If any of the above symptoms last more than two weeks, consult the specialists at Konkan Cancer Hospital immediately. Early detection is the cornerstone of successful treatment.

How Buccal Mucosa Cancer is Diagnosed at Konkan Cancer Center

Our diagnostic process includes:

  • Oral & Neck Examination: Thorough physical inspection.

  • Endoscopic Examination: Visualizing the tumor using a fiber-optic camera.

  • Biopsy: Definitive diagnosis via tissue sampling and pathological analysis.

  • CT Scan/MRI/PET-CT: Imaging tests to determine cancer spread.

  • HPV Testing: For virus-related cancers, particularly in younger patients.

Each diagnosis at Konkan Cancer Center is confirmed by a multidisciplinary tumor board, ensuring accurate staging and treatment planning.

What to Do After Diagnosis

At Konkan Cancer Hospital – (KCH), we support you from the moment of diagnosis with:

  • Expert oncologist consultations

  • Personalized treatment roadmaps

  • Patient education & emotional support

  • Nutritional counseling

  • Guidance for financial planning & insurance

Advanced Treatments for Buccal Mucosa Cancer at Konkan Cancer Center

Konkan Cancer Hospital provides the latest evidence-based treatments:

1. Surgery
  • Primary treatment for localized tumors.

  • Includes Wide Local Excision (WLE) and Neck Dissection if lymph nodes are involved.

  • Reconstructive Surgery may be required post-excision for functional and cosmetic rehabilitation.

2. Radiation Therapy
  • Delivered using Bhabhatron-II, India’s advanced cobalt-60 radiotherapy unit.

  • Used post-surgery or as definitive treatment in inoperable cases.

3. Chemotherapy
  • Platinum-based drugs (like Cisplatin) are commonly used.

  • Combined with radiotherapy in advanced stages (chemoradiation).

4. Targeted Therapy
  • EGFR inhibitors (like Cetuximab) for selected patients with specific biomarkers.

5. Immunotherapy
  • PD-1 inhibitors (such as Nivolumab) are explored in recurrent or metastatic cases.

+91 8080485895
+91 7588783924

What is the Gold Standard of Treatment?

For early-stage Buccal Mucosa Cancer, surgical resection followed by radiotherapy offers the best chance for cure and long-term disease control. In advanced stages, chemoradiation or a multimodal approach is standard.

Whom to Consult for Buccal Mucosa Cancer Treatment

Our team at Konkan Cancer Center includes:

  • Head & Neck Oncosurgeons

  • Radiation Oncologists

  • Medical Oncologists

  • Rehabilitation Specialists

To begin your treatment, Call Konkan Cancer Hospital at +91 80804 85895 or visit our hospital in Kudal, Sindhudurg.

Prognosis

Prognosis depends on stage, grade, and overall health:

  • Stage I/II: Over 80% 5-year survival with timely treatment

  • Stage III: 40–60% survival; requires aggressive treatment

  • Stage IV: 20–30% survival; needs combination therapy and supportive care

Regular follow-ups, imaging, and blood tests are critical to monitor recurrence.

Most Asked FAQs on Buccal Mucosa Cancer

Yes, especially when diagnosed early and treated appropriately at a specialized center like Konkan Cancer Center.

Typically 2–4 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and reconstruction.

Yes, our team offers medication and supportive therapies to manage pain, mouth ulcers, and swallowing difficulties.

Yes, Konkan Cancer Center offers cosmetic and functional reconstruction using local or free flaps.

Your nutrition plan will be adjusted based on treatment phase. Soft and high-protein diets are often recommended.

In some cases, yes. Konkan Cancer Center has in-house speech and swallowing therapists.

Treatment costs vary by stage and therapy but are affordable and transparent at KCC. EMI and government scheme options available.

Yes. Konkan Cancer Center is empaneled under multiple government and private health schemes.

Yes, every 3 months for the first 2 years, and then biannually for long-term monitoring.

Depends on the treatment type and your job role. Our doctors can advise based on your energy levels and recovery.

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