Oral cavity cancer diagnosis

Oral cavity cancer may appear in different areas of the mouth. Some tumors are detected during a routine check-up. But others are revealed when visiting a dentist or an otolaryngologist due to disturbing symptoms. Diagnosis begins with a physical examination of the oral cavity and oropharynx and continues with several studies:Nasolaryngoscopy. Insertion into the mouth or nose of an endoscope – a flexible tube with a light source and a camera to inspect hard-to-reach areas. Testing for human papillomavirus to understand the disease's possible course and choose the proper treatment. Exfoliative cytology. The doctor scrapes suspicious cells, puts them on a slide, and paints them with a dye. If at least one looks unusual, a specialist prescribes a biopsy. Examining the skull and spine (scintigraphy), the lungs, and lymph nodes are performed to detect metastases. Ultrasound studies the condition of the neck tissues and the lymph nodes, using sound waves and their echo. Imaging methods – computer, magnetic resonance, and positron emission tomography visually determine the presence of cancer, its location, and size. Additional tests include a general blood test, an electrocardiogram, a dental examination, and hearing testing, which draw up a complete illness picture and choose the best treatment option.