Oral cancer, which includes cancers of the lips, tongue, cheeks, floor of the mouth, hard and soft palate, sinuses, and throat, can be a life-threatening condition if not diagnosed and treated early. Here, we explore the most common treatment options for oral cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, and discuss the latest advancements in oral cancer treatment.
Surgery
Surgery is often the first-line treatment for oral cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove the cancerous tumor and any affected surrounding tissue while preserving as much of the patient's appearance and function as possible. Depending on the location and stage of the cancer, different types of surgical procedures may be performed, such as tumor resection, neck dissection, or reconstructive surgery.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also known as radiotherapy, uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. It can be used as a primary treatment for oral cancer or as an adjuvant therapy after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be delivered externally (external beam radiation) or internally (brachytherapy) depending on the specific needs of the patient.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. For oral cancer, chemotherapy is often used in combination with other treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy. It can be administered orally or intravenously, and the specific drugs used and the duration of treatment will depend on the individual patient's condition and the stage of the cancer.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy is a newer approach to treating oral cancer that focuses on blocking specific abnormalities within cancer cells. By targeting these specific molecules, targeted therapy can interfere with the growth and spread of cancer cells while limiting damage to healthy cells. This approach may be used in combination with other treatments and is often recommended for advanced or recurrent oral cancer.
Latest Advancements
Advancements in the treatment of oral cancer continue to evolve, offering new hope to patients. These include immunotherapy, which harnesses the body's immune system to attack cancer cells; photodynamic therapy, which uses a special type of light and a photosensitizing agent to kill cancer cells; and advanced surgical techniques, such as robotic-assisted surgery, to improve outcomes and reduce side effects.
It's important for patients with oral cancer to work closely with a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including surgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account their specific medical history and preferences. Research into new treatment options and clinical trials can also offer hope for patients with advanced or recurrent oral cancer.