Amy,

In Sep 2003, I was diagnosed with a right lateral tongue SCC. I had surgery Nov. 3, 2003 where 25% of tongue was removed. Good pathology results. T2N0M0 reported on Dec. 1, 2003. No radiation.

Everything seemed OK until Dec. 23, 2003 (I remember exactly when I first realized I could have a recurrence). I noticed a small "place near the bottom part of front of tongue and my wife noticed my breath was similar to that when I had my first SCC. This was a poor time to have it and I went through a couple of days denial during the Christmas holidays. Called the ENT's office after Christmas but couldn't get in until Jan. 12, 2004. Sure enough, another SCC!

Finally underwent 12 hours of surgery on Feb. 3, 2004. I am still coping with that. So to answer your question, I discovered it myself and it was confirmed. Hope you never have a recurrence but keep a watchful eye on any even minor oddities in your mouth.

Jim
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SCC Rt lateral tongue Dx 9/03, Surg 11/03 (T2/N0M0);recur SCC BOT and anterior tongue Dx 1/04; surg 2/04 (T4/N0M0) subtotal glossectomy, forearm free flap, floor of mouth reconstruction,pharyngoplasty;trach until 3/04;PEG still have; 36 rad (3/04-5/04)