I don't think it's unreasonable at this point to ask for a biopsy or a culture (or both) to confirm exactly what you are dealing with. It's been going on for a long time and has not responded to recent treatment. The only way any doctor can know for sure what something is or isn't is to get a sample of cells under a microscope.

It doesn't sound like typical symptoms of oral cancer, but something's not right. They may be able to do a scratch biopsy or something not too invasive. Once you have a diagnosis, you can get effective treatment and put your mind at ease.

Please don't hesitate to come back for support. I know it's easier said than done, but try to stay calm and please keep us posted. Here's to hoping it's nothing serious and it's something that can easily be treated/cured.

Best wishes,
Kerri

37 y/o fem at Dx (23 wks preg @ dx on 3/16/11)
SCC L oral tongue (no risk factors)
L partial gloss/MND 3/28/11 @ 25 wks preg
T1-2N0M0; no rads/chemo
Tonsillectomy on 8/6/12 +SCC L tonsil T2-3N1M0 (HPV-)
Treated with 35 rads/7 carbo & taxol (Rx ended 10/31/12), but many hospitalizations d/t complications from rx.
Various scans since rx ended are NED!
Part of genetic study for rare cancers @ MGH.
44 years old now...I wasn't sure I would make it! Hoping for 40 more!