Question: My 63 yr. old husband had an oral cancer screening at the dentist which revealed a lesion on his right lateral tongue.

This was subsequently biopsied.( The section size was 0.3x0.3x 0.2) The surgical pathology report concluded: "Squamous mucosa with focal moderate dysplasia". The surg . . .

Answer: First of all, I would like to congratulate him for stopping smoking; it is the most important factor triggering these lesions into cancer.

Yes, it is a precancerous lesion but less aggressive than the severe dysplasia. I agree with the close clinical follow-up since there is no guarantee . . .

Ask an Expert: Enver Ozer MD, Oral Cancer View full article

large red lump posterior to the uvula -

Question: My husband has complained of slight cough for months. Now has a large red inflammed lump posterior to the uvula. What can cause this and how is it treated.

Answer: It is not possible to make a diagnosis of your specific situation based upon a description. If the area is persistent, it is best to follow up directly with your health professional such as an ear, nose, throat surgeon for answers to your question.

Thank you for visiting NetWellness.

Ask an Expert: Amit Agrawal MD, Oral Cancer View full article

Oral Cancer

Question: I`ve been in a committed lesbian relationship for years and neither one of us have HPV or any other STDs. With that said, is there any research/indication that having oral sex regularly leads to oral cancer?

Answer: If you and your partner have had negative Pap smears and have no history of genital or oral warts, it is highly unlikely that you are at risk for oral HPV related lesions, especially in a mutually monogamous relationship. Human papilloma virus or HPV has been associated with up to 50% of the oral an . . .

Ask an Expert: Deborah Bartholomew MD, Oral Cancer View full article

Oral Squamous Papilloma

Question: please can you tell me the exact malignant potential of oral squamous papilloma? only in 50% of cases HPV 6 or 11 or any other is present. what is the exact etiological agent for oral squamous papilloma according to latest studies?

Answer: Papilloma is one of the common benign neoplasms of the oral cavity. It is associated with the HPV-6 and 11 subtypes. It does not show malignant transformation. Treatment is surgical excision or laser ablation. Recurrence is very rare.

Ask an Expert: Enver Ozer MD, Oral Cancer View full article