Oral cancer physical examination

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Sargun Singh Walia M.B.B.S.[2]; Grammar Reviewer: Natalie Harpenau, B.S.[3]

Overview

Common physical examination findings of oral cancer include a lump or thickening in the soft tissues of the oral cavity, soreness, difficulty chewing or swallowing, ear pain, difficulty moving the jaw or tongue, hoarseness, numbness of the tongue, or swelling of the jaw that causes dentures to fit poorly.

Physical Examination

• A thorough head and neck examination should be a routine part of each patient's dental visit and general medical examination.

Appearance of the patient

• The patient may appear ill and cachexic.

HEENT

• Dental practitioners and dental care professionals should examine the teeth and entire oral mucosa.
• Most common involved sites in the oral cavity include:
  • Tongue
  • Lateral and ventrolateral aspects of mouth
  • Floor of mouth
• Lesions such as ulcers, red or white patches may be visible.
• Any ulcer with a duration that persists for more than 3 weeks then it should be biopsied.

• Ear pain may be present.

• Soreness of the throat may be present.

• Difficulty in moving tongue may be present.
• Numbness of the tongue may be present.
• Swelling of the jaw may be present.