Abstract
Cancer of the oral cavity accounts for approximately 2-3% of all malignant tumors in the entire population of Japan.
Squamous cell carcinomas are the most common malignant tumors of the oral cavity, representing a little over 90% of all oral malignancies.
Poor oral hygiene and the habits of tobacco and alcohol and contraction of syphilis are all important underlying or predisposing factors.
Metastases to the cervical lymph nodes certainly define a high risk category of patients and this has been well documented.
Paradoxically, in spite of the fact that the mouth is readily accessible for inspection, biopsy, and radiotherapy the outstanding feature of these neoplasms is the poor prognosis of a type of cancer which presents exceptionally good opportunities for early treatment. The major implication is that diagnosis is usually late. Approximately 60% of oral carcinomas are well advanced at the time of their diagnoses.
