About Lip Cancer
Cancers generally start when the DNA in cells mutate (change). The mutation causes cells to multiple abnormally fast, resulting in masses or tumors of cancerous cells. The reason a cell mutates and causes lip cancer is unknown. However, lip cancer is associated with certain risk factors.
Non-modifiable risk factors for lip cancer (factors that a person cannot change or control):
- Being male
- Having light-colored skin
- Being over the age of 40 years
- Having a weakened immune system
Modifiable risk factors (factors that a person can possibly change or control):
- Heavy alcohol use
- Tobacco use, including smoking cigarettes, cigars or a pipe; or using chewing tobacco or snuff
- Prolonged exposure to natural or artificial sunlight, such as from tanning beds
It is important to note that while these risk factors are associated with lip cancer, they do not guarantee its development. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns or symptoms you may have.
The most common early symptoms of lip cancer include:
- A sore on the lips or inside the mouth that does not heal within a couple of weeks
- A lump on the lips or a noticeable thickening
- Painful or numb lips
- Bleeding from the lips
- A red or white patch on the lips
As lip cancer progresses or reaches higher severity, other common symptoms may occur:
- Tightness in the jaw due to swelling
- Challenges speaking or eating
- Thickened skin on the lip
- Unexplained numbness on the lip
- Swelling of the jaw
If you experience any unexplained lesions on the lips, bleeding from the lips, or other concerning symptoms, it is important to see a doctor or dentist for evaluation.
To diagnose lip cancer, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Physical examination: The doctor will closely inspect your lips and the inside of your mouth for lumps and abnormalities. They may also check the lymph nodes in your neck for swelling.
- Biopsy: If lip cancer is suspected, a biopsy will be performed. This involves taking a small sample of skin from the affected area and examining it under a microscope for signs of cancer.
- Imaging tests: These may include CT (computed tomography) scans, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans, or PET (positron emission tomography) scans. These tests help determine if the cancer has spread to other areas of the body.
- Complete blood count (CBC): This test measures different components of your blood and can provide information about your overall health and any abnormalities.
- Endoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into your mouth to examine the inside of your throat and esophagus. For lip cancer, this is done to see if cancer has spread beyond the lips.
It's important to consult with your healthcare provider who can recommend specific examinations, tests, and procedures based on your individual situation. They will guide you through the diagnostic process and provide you with the most accurate information about your condition.
The goals of treatment for lip cancer are to cure the cancer, preserve function, maintain good mouth opening and closing of the lips, and achieve good cosmetic results. The specific treatment options for lip cancer may include:
- Surgery: This involves removing the tumor and reconstructing the lip for both cosmetic and functional purposes. The extent of surgery depends on the size and stage of the tumor.
- Radiation therapy: High-energy beams are used to kill tumor cells and prevent cancer from returning. It can be used before or after surgery to reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: Medications are used to target and kill cancer cells throughout the body. It can be used in combination with other treatments to reduce the risk of spreading or returning.
- Targeted therapy: This type of treatment uses drugs that specifically target certain molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth.
- Immunotherapy: It stimulates the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells.
It is important to note that treatment recommendations vary depending on factors such as the stage of cancer, tumor size, location, and overall health. It is best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on individual circumstances.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.