Paul is right about the insitu vs invasive. A lesion can be small but still be invasive. This is why this cancer is so tricky. I wouldn't get too caught up in the staging. While on some level it is important to know that. To me a better indicator is its differentiation, and nodular involvement, and amount of time from the appearance of the lesion to possible spread to the nodes. This is a good indicator of how aggressive this cancer is.

I only say this because knowing this other information will indicate what potential treatment you will likely go through and whether your dr. Is being aggressive with his treatment.

Not that I think there is ever overkill with treatment (frankly no one ever complained of getting too much treatment - but some have complained of not enough)

Invasive or not though... I always say push push push. This is cancer you want it dealt with by a top dr. And as quickly as possible. Take care.


Cheryl : Irritation - 2004 BX: 6/2008 : Inflam. BX: 12/10, DX: 12/10 : SCC - LS tongue well dif. T2N1M0. 2/11 hemigloss + recon. : PND - 40 nodes - 39 clear. 3/11 - 5/11 IMRT 33 + cis x2, PEG 3/28/11 - 5/19/11 3 head, 2 chest scans - clear(fingers crossed) HPV-, No smoke, drink, or drugs, Vegan