First off did they do a biopsy? and if so of the BOT and or the node?

Assuming they did a bio and it was confirmed Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) then I also assume they staged you a III. This cancer CAN ONLY BE DIAGNOSED BY A BIOPSY.

Were/are you a tobacco user?

If not I would inquire about being tested for HPV.

Unless I'm missing something you most likely do not need to have the tongue operated on and may not need a neck dissection as the typical Tx of concurrent IMRT radiation and chemo, most likely Cisplatin, should kill the cancer.

David

Age 58 at Dx, HPV16+ SCC, Stage IV BOT+2 nodes, non smoker, casual drinker, exercise nut, Cisplatin x 3 & concurrent IMRT x 35,(70 Gy), no surgery, no Peg, Tx at Moffitt over Aug 06. Jun 07, back to riding my bike 100 miles a wk. Now doing 12 Spin classes and 60 outdoor miles per wk. Nov 13 completed Hilly Century ride for Cancer, 104 miles, 1st Place in my age group. Apr 2014 & 15, Spun for 9 straight hrs to raise $$ for YMCA's Livestrong Program. Certified Spin Instructor Jun 2014.