C04.9

Clinical Causes: Tobacco use, including smoking cigarettes, cigars, and using smokeless tobacco products Heavy alcohol consumption Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection Prolonged exposure to sun or other sources of radiation in certain cases Poor oral hygiene and chronic irritation or inflammation of the mouth History of head and neck cancer

Key Symptoms: Persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth that doesn't heal Lumps or thickening in the floor of the mouth Pain or tenderness in the mouth or related areas Difficulty swallowing or a feeling of something stuck in the throat Unexplained bleeding from the mouth or the area under the tongue Numbness or weakness in the tongue or lower lip Changes in speech or voice

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive oral examination by a healthcare professional, highlighting any abnormal tissues or growths. Further diagnostic procedures may include biopsies, imaging studies such as CT scans or MRI, and endoscopic evaluations to determine the extent of the tumour and whether it has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes. Early detection through routine dental check-ups can significantly improve treatment options.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment approaches for malignant neoplasm of the floor of the mouth often involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgical intervention may include removing the tumour and surrounding tissues to ensure complete excision. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target cancer cells, while chemotherapy employs medications to kill or inhibit rapidly dividing cancer cells. In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to restore the function or aesthetic appearance after tumour removal. The specific treatment plan depends on the tumour's size, location, stage, and overall health of the patient.