Hello LMS!

Excisional biopsies are the way to go. I had one prior to my initial diagnosis where the oral surgeon removed a piece of my tongue that was about the size of a chick pea. Boy, did it hurt for about 4 days. But, he saved my life by doing it right the first time. He sent it out to a pathology service that specializes in oral lesions/cancer. The results took a week, so the waiting was really tough. I wish I had joined the forums at that point, but I didn't. I was too afraid, so kudos to you for being smart and courageous to face your fears. We are all here to support you, cancer or not. Hopefully...not!

As far as tolerating food, I had to let popsicles melt a bit, then eat them because my tongue was too sensitive to the extreme cold. Ice cream would have to warm up a bit, too. I LOVE chocolate, but many people find that chocolate irritates the tongue in these cases, so you might want to try something else. My surgeon also gave me an antiseptic rinse called chlorohexidine (or something like that) and it helped keep the area clean.

I'll be hoping and wishing for you to have no evidence of disease. Please come back for help and keep us posted as your are able.

With great care,
Kerri