Oral Cancer Diagnosis: A Comprehensive Guide to Key Examination Methods

Facing oral cancer, early diagnosis is the key to overcoming the disease. This article will detail a range of advanced examination methods, including nasal endoscopy, biopsy, fine needle aspiration cytology, microcytoscopy, X-ray, CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), bone scan, and ultrasound or positron emission tomography (PET scan). These methods not only help doctors accurately assess the condition but also provide patients with the most suitable treatment plans. We will explain the principles, procedures, and applicable scenarios of these examinations one by one, helping you feel less confused when facing oral cancer.

Common diagnostic methods for oral cancer are briefly described as follows:

Nasal Endoscopy

The doctor will use a nasal endoscope to examine the patient’s oral cavity. The endoscope is equipped with a mirror and light, which reflects strong light into the patient’s mouth, allowing the doctor to clearly see any ulcers or masses in the patient’s oral cavity and throat.

Biopsy

The doctor will take a small amount of soft tissue from the suspected cancerous area and send it for laboratory testing. By examining these cell slices under a microscope, the presence of cancer cells can be determined.

Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology

The doctor uses a thin needle and syringe to extract cell samples from the mass in the patient’s oral cavity for testing. Fine needle aspiration cytology is a relatively simple and quick examination method, and the patient can leave immediately after the procedure.

Microcytoscopy

If a patient has precancerous cells and frequently undergoes biopsies, the doctor may recommend microcytoscopy as an alternative. The doctor applies a small amount of blue dye to the abnormal cells and then observes them under a microscope. This examination is painless, with only slight discomfort.

X-ray

X-rays of the face, neck, oral cavity, jaw, and lungs are taken to determine if the cancer cells have spread.

CT Scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI or NMR)

CT scans or MRI can reveal details that X-rays or other examinations cannot. Both methods are quick and painless. However, patients with cardiac monitors, pacemakers, or any surgical clips cannot undergo MRI because the strong magnetic field can interfere with these devices.

Bone Scan

A bone scan can check if cancer cells have spread to the cheekbones near the oral cavity.

Ultrasound or Positron Emission Tomography (PET Scan)

Ultrasound or positron emission tomography (PET scan).

Before each examination, the ENT specialist will explain the reasons for the test, the procedure, and any potential risks to the patient. To accurately assess the patient’s condition and determine the appropriate treatment, the patient may need to undergo one or a combination of the above examinations.

For any ENT issues, please immediately contact ENT Head and Neck Surgery Centre for detailed evaluation by our ENT specialists (Tel: 3100 0555).

Source:

HK ENT Specialist Ltd.

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