Skin, Lip, Oral, and Esophageal Cancers – Basics

Skin, Lip, Oral, and Esophageal Cancers – Basics

What is a neoplasm?

A neoplasm is a rapid new growth of cells exceeding normal growth.

What is apoptosis?

Apoptosis is programmed cell death, removing aging or damaged cells.

What is the difference between benign and malignant neoplasms?

Malignant neoplasms invade surrounding and distant tissues; benign do not.

What type of cancer is most common in the oral cavity?

Squamous cell carcinoma, over 90% of cases, most commonly on the lateral borders of the tongue.

What areas are included in oral cancers?

Lips, floor of the mouth, buccal mucosa, hard palate, alveolar processes, oropharynx, pharynx, vermillion border, pharyngeal arches, soft palate, palatoglossus, tonsillar fossae.