X 57, MIDC, Kudal,
Sindhudurg, Maharashtra – 416520
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+91 8080485895
+91 7588783924
Oral Cavity Cancer
Oral Cavity Cancer includes cancers that develop anywhere in the mouth, such as the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth (under the tongue), hard palate (roof), and the area behind the wisdom teeth.
Oral Cavity Cancer
Overview: What is Oral Cavity Cancer?
Oral Cavity Cancer includes cancers that develop anywhere in the mouth, such as the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks, floor of the mouth (under the tongue), hard palate (roof), and the area behind the wisdom teeth. Most of these cancers originate in the squamous cells lining the oral mucosa and are referred to as Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma.
At Konkan Cancer Center, we specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of head and neck cancers, including Oral Cavity Cancer, using the latest in oncology science and personalized care plans.
How Does Oral Cancer Develop?
Oral cancer begins when mutations occur in the DNA of normal oral cells. These changes instruct the cells to multiply rapidly and avoid natural cell death, forming a mass known as a tumor. If not identified early, these cancerous cells can spread to the lymph nodes, jawbone, or distant organs such as the lungs or liver. Early-stage diagnosis is crucial to achieving favorable outcomes.
Causes & Risk Factors of Oral Cavity Cancer
At Konkan Cancer Center, we recognize the importance of identifying underlying risk factors to aid in prevention and early detection:
Tobacco Use: Includes cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco (gutka, khaini), and pipe smoking.
Heavy Alcohol Use: Excessive consumption of alcohol significantly raises the risk.
HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Especially HPV-16, associated with oropharyngeal cancers.
Prolonged Sun Exposure: Increases the risk of lip cancer, especially in outdoor workers.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Chronic irritation from poor dental care or misfitting dentures.
Family History: Genetic predisposition plays a small, but relevant role.
Age: More common in individuals aged 40 and above.
Nutritional Deficiency: Low intake of fruits, vegetables, and essential micronutrients
Types of Oral Cancer
Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Over 90% of oral cancers; fast-growing and aggressive if untreated.
Verrucous Carcinoma – Slow-growing variant with low metastatic potential.
Minor Salivary Gland Tumors – Rare cancers occurring in salivary tissues.
Lymphomas – Especially seen at the base of the tongue or tonsillar area.
Symptoms: When Should You Be Concerned?
If you experience any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks, consult Konkan Cancer Center immediately:
Persistent sore or ulcer that doesn’t heal
A lump or thickening in the cheek, lip, or tongue
Red or white patches inside the mouth
Chronic pain in the mouth or throat
Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or speaking
Loosening of teeth or jaw pain
Persistent bad breath or weight loss
Swelling in the neck or jaw area
Staging & Grading of Oral Cancer
Staging helps determine how far the cancer has spread, while grading reveals how abnormal the cells look.
Stages
Stage I: Tumor ≤ 2 cm, no lymph node involvement.
Stage II: Tumor 2–4 cm, no lymph node spread.
Stage III: Tumor > 4 cm or cancer in a single lymph node.
Stage IV: Spread to adjacent structures, multiple lymph nodes, or distant metastasis.
Grades
Grade 1 (Well-differentiated): Cells resemble normal tissues.
Grade 2 (Moderately differentiated): Intermediate abnormality.
Grade 3 (Poorly differentiated): Very abnormal cells, aggressive behavior.
Diagnostic Tests & Procedures at KCH
At Konkan Cancer Hospital, we offer state-of-the-art facilities for accurate diagnosis:
Clinical Oral Exam: Thorough examination by an onco-specialist.
Endoscopy: Visual inspection of the oral cavity and throat using a camera scope.
Imaging: MRI, CT Scan, PET-CT to evaluate local invasion and metastasis.
Biopsy: Incisional or excisional tissue sample for histopathological confirmation.
HPV Testing: Especially in cancers at the base of the tongue or tonsils.
Treatment Options at Konkan Cancer Center
We provide evidence-based, multimodal treatment plans, tailored for each patient:
1. Surgery
Primary treatment for early-stage and resectable tumors.
Procedures include glossectomy, mandibulectomy, neck dissection, etc.
2. Radiation Therapy
Post-surgical or primary treatment using Bhabhatron-II Radiotherapy Unit.
Precisely targets residual cancer cells, preserving healthy tissues.
3. Chemotherapy
Drugs like cisplatin, 5-FU, and paclitaxel used in locally advanced or metastatic stages.
Often used in concurrent chemoradiation settings.
4. Targeted Therapy
EGFR inhibitors like cetuximab block cancer-specific pathways.
5. Immunotherapy
Newer treatments using PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors for recurrent/metastatic disease.
+91 8080485895
+91 7588783924
Gold Standard of Treatment
For early-stage Oral Cavity Cancer, the gold standard is surgical excision followed by radiotherapy if necessary. In advanced cases, a multimodal approach combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation is recommended for optimal disease control.
Prognosis: What to Expect
Stage I–II: 70–90% survival with timely treatment.
Stage III: Requires intensive therapy, moderate prognosis.
Stage IV: More complex, but survival improves with comprehensive care.
At Konkan Cancer Center, regular follow-up, nutritional guidance, and rehabilitation services improve both quality of life and survival outcomes.
What to Do After Diagnosis?
Stay calm and seek expert help.
Schedule a consultation at for a detailed treatment roadmap.
Bring past reports, imaging, and biopsy records.
Take emotional and family support seriously—our counselors are here to help.
Most Asked FAQs on Oral Cavity Cancer
Non-healing ulcers, lumps, red/white patches, and persistent oral discomfort.
Using biopsy, imaging, and endoscopic evaluation.
Yes, avoid tobacco, alcohol, and ensure oral hygiene.
Very high in early stages; declines in later stages if untreated.
Yes, we have both surgical oncology and Bhabhatron-II radiotherapy under one roof.
Absolutely. Bring your records and meet our expert panel.
Why Choose Konkan Cancer Hospital – (KCH) for Oral Cancer?
Advanced infrastructure: Modern OT, ICU, and Bhabhatron-II Radiation Unit.
Expert team: Surgical, radiation, and medical oncologists.
Affordable treatment: Transparent billing, EMI options, and insurance support.
Accessibility: Just a short drive from Goa, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri & Sindhudurg.
Compassionate care: Emotional counseling, nutrition, and support groups.
