My husband is post surgery (left hemi glossectomy with modified radical neck dissection T2,N1,M0) with 7 rounds of chemotherapy (Cysplatin) and 33 radiation sessions. His recent CT (11/11/14) showed soft tissue thickening along the anterior lateral left tongue base measuring 1.1cm (previously measured 1.4cm on 8/8/14). Both his Radiation Oncologist and Oral Surgeon said he is fine .....should I be concerned and if so, what further steps and/or opinions should we take?
Hi, Thanks for writing in. I suppose your husband got left half of his tongue removed surgically and followed by chemotherapy and radiation. Since his first pre-operative CT showed a 1.1 cm lesion, it was an early stage cancer and that is why surgery was recommended. After surgery, the operated area can develop in to a healthy scar. He has received 33 fractions of radiation and that will control any microscopic extension of the cancer in to the healthy appearing tongue. The soft tissue thickening measuring 1.1 cm is healing scar. The radiation has given an appearance of a scar formation. He must continue visiting the oncologist as required. Also, the operated wound must be regularly examined to see if it is healthy and showing healing in progress. Chance of recurrence from early operated oral cancer is less. Please do not worry.