Is This Oral Cancer? Symptoms and Self-Examination

Q: Is This Oral Cancer? Symptoms and Self-Examination

Hello： The initial clinical manifestations of oral cancer may present as leukoplakia (including erythroleukoplakia), erythroplakia, irregular cauliflower-like protruding masses, wart-like masses, or ulcerative lesions. <br>However, their common characteristic is that the lesions

Is this oral cancer?

Hello Doctor: (1) I have a small bump on the inside of my right cheek.
My mom looked at it and said it is very small and almost difficult to see.
She mentioned that it is the same pink color as normal tissue, with a "bump" on top that looks like a whitehead.
Could this be oral cancer? (2) What methods can I use to examine it myself? (3) If I touch it (from the outside of my cheek or from the inside), should it feel hard or soft?

OH~YES, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/13

Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology

Hello: The initial clinical manifestations of oral cancer may present as leukoplakia (including erythroleukoplakia), erythroplakia, irregular cauliflower-like protruding masses, wart-like masses, or ulcerative lesions.
However, their common characteristic is that the lesions do not heal on their own over a long period and continue to expand.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist or dentist for further diagnosis.
It is also recommended to take the opportunity to perform self-examinations of the oral cavity while brushing your teeth daily.
In addition to visual inspection, use your hands to palpate the area.
Key points to check include: (1) Changes in the color of the oral mucosa - such as becoming white, red, brown, or black, and cannot be wiped away.
(2) Ulcers - oral mucosal ulcers that have not healed for more than two weeks should undergo a biopsy.
(3) Masses - unexplained lumps in the mouth or neck.
Self-examination is an effective method for cancer prevention.
Below, we will introduce the clinical symptoms of oral cancer in various areas and how to perform self-examinations using a mirror.
If you notice any of the aforementioned suspicious symptoms or discover oral lesions that have not healed for more than two weeks, you should seek medical attention immediately.
If necessary, further biopsy surgery should be performed to confirm the diagnosis and initiate early treatment.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2012/05/13

More Info

When it comes to concerns about oral cancer, it is essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of the symptoms, self-examination techniques, and the importance of seeking professional medical advice. Based on your description, let’s break down your questions and provide a comprehensive overview.

1. Is it Oral Cancer?
The small bump you described on your right cheek, which appears pink and has a white spot resembling a pimple, could be a variety of things. While oral cancer can present as lumps or lesions in the mouth, it typically has specific characteristics. Oral cancer lesions often do not heal, may be painful, and can change in appearance over time. They may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, persistent sores, or changes in speech. Given that your lesion is small and described as similar to normal tissue, it may not be cancerous, but it is crucial to monitor it closely. If it persists for more than two weeks or changes in size, color, or texture, you should consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

2. Self-Examination Techniques:
Self-examination of the oral cavity is an important practice for early detection of potential issues. Here are some steps you can follow:
- Visual Inspection: Use a mirror to examine your mouth, including the cheeks, gums, tongue, and the roof and floor of your mouth. Look for any unusual spots, lesions, or color changes.

- Palpation: Gently feel the inside of your cheeks and the area around the bump. Note any hardness, tenderness, or irregularities.
- Check for Symptoms: Pay attention to any pain, difficulty swallowing, or changes in taste. If you notice any of these symptoms, it may warrant further investigation.

3. Texture of the Bump:
When you touch the bump, it could feel either hard or soft depending on its nature. Generally, benign lumps, such as mucoceles (fluid-filled cysts), tend to be soft, while more solid lesions could feel firmer. If the bump is hard and immovable, it could be a cause for concern. Conversely, if it is soft and movable, it may be less likely to be cancerous. However, this is not a definitive way to diagnose the issue, and professional evaluation is recommended.

Additional Considerations:
- Risk Factors: Factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and a history of HPV infection can increase the risk of oral cancer. If you have any of these risk factors, it is even more critical to be vigilant about changes in your oral health.

- Professional Evaluation: If you have any doubts or if the lesion does not resolve, it is essential to see a dentist or an oral specialist. They may recommend a biopsy to rule out cancer or other serious conditions. Early detection is key in managing any potential oral health issues effectively.

In conclusion, while your description does not immediately suggest oral cancer, it is vital to remain observant and proactive about your oral health. Regular self-examinations, awareness of changes, and timely consultations with healthcare professionals are crucial steps in ensuring your well-being. If you have any concerns, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Oral Cancer Symptoms: A Patient's Journey with Dentures

I have endured wearing ill-fitting dentures for two months, and I have not worn them for the past six months. During this time, I have experienced the following symptoms in the maxillary mucosa: the most severely pressured areas under the dentures are swollen, there are increasin...

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry
The above situation appears to be an inflammatory condition of the oral mucosa caused by a dysfunction of the body's immune system. It is recommended to consult with an oral surgeon or an oral pathologist at a major hospital for further diagnosis and treatment.

Unusual Oral Growths: Understanding Symptoms and Risks of Oral Cancer

There are two small black spots less than one centimeter in size on the inside of my cheeks, along with some slightly protruding tissue. My wisdom teeth and upper teeth tend to bite into them. Additionally, there are white patches on both sides close to my throat that cannot be s...

Dr. Huang Tingfang reply Dentistry
Dear Xiao Jing, Hello! Smoking can increase the risk of oral cancer by 18 times. If you notice any unusual growths, please seek medical attention promptly! Wishing you safety! Sincerely, Dr. Huang Ting-Fang, Dentistry

Understanding Tongue Issues: Symptoms and Concerns About Oral Cancer

A few days ago, I experienced severe ulceration under my tongue, with a relatively large ulcer area. After visiting a doctor and applying the medication prescribed for a few days, it has finally healed to a large extent. However, I now notice that the front part of my tongue feel...

Dr. Lin Jiayong reply Dentistry
Hello: The most direct way to confirm whether it is oral cancer is through a biopsy. Whether a biopsy is necessary will be determined by the physician who is evaluating your oral condition. It is recommended that you discuss with your treating physician whether a biopsy is needed...

Symptoms of HIV and Oral Cancer: What to Look Out For

Hello Doctor: In mid-June, I had an oral candidiasis and lost 6 kilograms in two months. However, after applying the medication for three days, I was completely cured, and there has been no recurrence since then. I also underwent an oral cancer examination during that time, which...

Dr. Chen Jianzhi reply Otolaryngology
Dear Inquirer, Based on your literal question, oral lesions associated with HIV primarily manifest as candidiasis, while oral cancer is characterized by mass-like lesions. However, most painful oral lesions are benign, and only a very small number that do not heal within a month...