Base of tongue cancer

Diagnosis

The base of the tongue is the rear part of the tongue located in the throat and belongs to the oropharynx. Tumours there often go unnoticed for a long time. Possible signs include difficulty or pain when swallowing, pain radiating to the ear, muffled speech or a lump in the neck. Persistent symptoms should be assessed by a doctor.

Assessment includes endoscopy, palpation, ultrasound of the neck, CT or MRI and a tissue sample. It is also examined whether the tumour is associated with human papillomavirus (HPV), as this matters for prognosis and treatment planning.

Causes

Besides tobacco and alcohol use, infection with certain HPV types plays an important role in tumours of the base of the tongue.

Treatment options

Depending on the findings, options include surgical removal, for example transorally with a laser, usually combined with neck dissection, radiotherapy or chemoradiotherapy. Treatment is planned individually and agreed on an interdisciplinary basis, with the aim of preserving swallowing and speech as well as possible. Regular follow-up then follows.