Hi Gina,

Based on what you have said, it is not base of tongue (you can't actually see the BOT as it's in your throat). I had a similar diagnosis and similar age (I'm 39).

You will likely have surgery to remove the tumour, and surrounding tissue and based on the size, potentially a reconstruction of the lost part of the tongue (called a glossectomy) from another area of your body. For me, it was from my forearm.

Radiation and chemo will be determined in consult with an oncologist. Oral cancer has high recurrence risks, and if it has spead to any of your nodes, is almost a guarantee.

This is not a death sentence. It is cancer, it is scary, but it is beatable.

Good luck with your tests and keep us posted.


Tina
Diag: Aug. 13/12
T3N0M0
50% + glossectomy and bilateral radical neck dissection, removal of nodes zones I - V
Surgery October 11/12
Chemo/rad on hold due to clear margins and nodes
Sept 21/13 clear CT with anomaly thought to be the artery, being watched closely.
Dec 16/13 - anomaly confirmed artery, all clear
nickname: "get 'r done"
Plans: kick cancer's butt