This has been quite the ordeal to say the least. I noticed the leukoplakia a few months back. Since I work in an emergency room I had one of the PAs(1) look at it. He said to keep an eye on it.
Once the ulcer formed on it I immediately went to see my PCP(2) who refered me to an OMFS. The OMFS(3) I saw thought it was trauma and refered me to a dentist to have the edges of my teeth smoothed over. The dentist(4) took one look and said you need a biopsy now. So, he referred me to the oral surgeon(5) who did the biopsy. As soon as the oral surgeon got the biopsy results back showing there was SCC he called and told me to go see the radiation oncologist(6) who is suppose to be one that is very experienced in oral cancer. Since I just turned 40 yrs old, the RO wanted to try to get as much of it as possible, if not all by removing it. The RO ordered the PET and I was referred to the ENT(7) that did the partial glossectomy. There was no lymph node involvement shown on the PET. The ENT had samples frozen and checked during the glossectomy. The ENT also was going by pictures taken of the leukoplakia and a scar of the biopsy. He said he was going to have the tissues checked by another pathologist for good measure if you will. I will find out more tomorrow about those findings. I will also look into the CCC and see if they will take a look at me. I asked around the medical circles I know and both the RO and ENT come highly recommended especially by the nurses I know on the oncology floor where I work. I appreciate all your help and concerns. I feel like I am just rambling on now. I mean I have consulted with 7 different Drs, PAs and oncologists...
What are your thoughts?
Does anyone just have SCC taken out and go on with life with no recurrence?