Neoplasms of the tongue

NEOPLASMS OF TONGUE

  • Fibromata, lipomata, and angiomata are the neoplasms of the tongue. Carcinoma confined to tongue is unknown in animals except for canine oral viral papillomatosis .Epithelioma affecting the face usually involves tongue. Malignant melanoma, fibrosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma may be primary to the tongue.
  • In Cats high incidence of tongue tumors is recorded, Squamous cell carcinoma, fibrosarcoma papillomata, Haemangioma.

Clinical signs

  • Difficulty in mastication.
  • Salivation.
  • Quidding. -Chewed food drops from mouth with saliva
  • Dysphagia.
  • If tumor is ulcerated – blood stained discharge from mouth.

Treatment

  • Surgical excision and chemotherapy are of little value.
  • Radiotherapy is indicated for Squamous cell carcinoma in small animals.
  • Surgical excision is indicated for Papilloma.
  • Irradiation and hyperthermia is indicated for fibrosarcoma.
  • Steroid therapy is indicated for hemangioma.
  • In Large animals:. Amputation of tongue is indicated.
Last modified: Tuesday, 5 June 2012, 6:05 AM