I found a large red patch 8 weeks ago at the back of my mouth on the left cheek using a magnifying mirror and a strong torch. I have been a smoker for many years (no alcohol) so there is risk of erythroplakia and would appreciate details about how to identify the early stage of this terrible disease?

After 4 weeks I visited the doctor and was given an appointment in 2 weeks at the ENT department, they were running late and my consultation was short. Firstly she had a good look inside my mouth then down my throat which was clear of lesions. The only information I was given was she said she looks for lesions and takes biopsies, she can find no lesions, but did confirm several blood blisters. The consultation ended quickly by saying she cannot guarantee there are no cancer cells, that I should stop smoking and use a mouthwash and then discharged me; and that was that. Currently I am waiting for the results to be received by the doctor to see if the consultant suggests any reservations or monitoring then I can get really worried. It worries me that this may be the early stages of cancer and they may wish to wait and see what happens. The one thing which is so important is early diagnosis so I wonder are there are tests for the early incidence of cancer cells in the mouth, other than biopsy.

I’ve been taking pictures inside my mouth for weeks and there’s no improvement, it might be getting worse. I’ve done my best to include a picture using a free online photo repository but if the image is not clear I can send an email attachment, the image can be zoomed to show great detail. I will be greatful for any help.

http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff326/crismyphotos/P9150011a.jpg


http://i536.photobucket.com/albums/ff326/crismyphotos/P9230014a.jpg

This message has been edited. Last edited by: PhilipG,

Hello Philip

The gold standard is still the biopsy. I suggest you ask to be seen again if things have no improved in 2 weeks or sooner if you notice changes (larger, pain, etc) suggestive of a cancer. You are doing the right thing to monitor the situation but don't become paranoid.

There seems to be a technical glitch with your linked photos, so I can't make any suggestions.

Best wishes
Vinod

Dear Vinod

Thank you for your message it was much appreciated. Your being very kind to call the lack of the pictures a technical glitch. I have not used an online photo site before so its still a mystery, but I have surprisingly managed to put on my message what they call a direct link which should bring up the two pictures. I hope they show something of the problem.

Hello Philip

Good photos! There is nothing in the photos that alerts me, though. I noticed wear of the incisal edge of your lower right canine tooth indicating that you have a habit of clenching (keeping your teeth together).

Your ENT specialist too could see nothing abnormal. The problem is that really early cancer is often undetectable! The advice is to reduce your risk by stopping smoking and to be vigilant enough to go back if you notice anything else come up. Meanwhile, relax.

Hope that helps.

Best wishes
Vinod

Dear Vinod

Thank you very much for your favourable comments I'm beginning to recover already. Its still odd the very distinctive pattern in the corner of my mouth (the right side on the picture), its maintained its shape for 2 months now and I will enquire further what caused it and if it will go away.

Other than years of smoking and drinking enormous quanties of coffee the only other major change concerning my mouth is a prescription high fluoride toothpaste called Duraphat 5000 which I started to use early this year, it helps to repair dental cavities and recommended by my dentist. I’ve not used the toothpaste regularly but about 3 months ago for a 3 week period I changed the way I brush my teeth, I didn’t swill out my mouth with water but spit out to leave the Duraphat toothpaste mostly in my mouth overnight to make up for the time I hadn’t used it hoping it would more effective to strength my teeth. I’ve ceased using the Duraphat 5000 toothpaste for weeks just in case it may be the problem,

There is an important point which may be of interest to others. After seeing the doctor, who incidentally said I could use the mouthwash CorsodyI. I thought I should get more information from the dentist, he was able to confirm the lump under the tongue was a blood blister and not to worry about that but he could not see the red patch. This was totally unexpected since it’s so obvious; he explained I should not use Corsodyl mouthwash it discolours and reddens the mouth, so thats something to avoid.

Its back to the doctor now and may I offer my utmost thanks for your help. This has prompted me to look at something else that has concerned me for years; you dont know of a good skin cancer forum I suppose.

All the best, and thanks

Philip Greenwood