I am posting for the first time. Firstly, I want to thank Brian Hill for first returning my initial phone call to get info about oral cancer, and for being a wonderful resource and support as I await the results of my biopsy.
In reading many of the posts, it has become clear to me that this place is blessing for those who need information, support and encouragement.
I will briefly state my situation. I have been a life long sufferer of canker sores,some quite severe. About six weeks ago, I started what I thought was canker sore #2,003. This one is on my soft palate. At 3 weeks I went to my primary (an internist) who told me he did not think it was cancer. At 5 weeks I called him back to tell him it was still there. He put me on acyclovir. Still there. He then referred me to ENT in my HMO. They told me they could get me in in 6 WEEKS!
I had a dentist appt for a crown and decided to go that route to check on this sore. He looked at it and didn't like it. I told him I couldn't get it to my ENT and he got me in to an oral surgeon in two days. He didn't like what he saw either.
The next day (4 days ago) I had the biopsy ( by a second oral surgeon). He didn't say much. "It could be cancer, it could be pre-cancer, it could be a stubborn viral ulcer".
Obviously I am worried.In the quick scanning of some posts, it seems that many people who have been diagnosed with oral cancer had some other symptoms, especially lymph node problems. the first oral surgeon told me if it was cancer, it in all likelyhood would be very early in progression. I have no lymph node swelling or pain, no neck or head pain, or ear problems. I don't know if this means anything.
I'm still sore from the biopsy. The stitches have come out, and it looks like a black crater. By the way, the lesion was 1 centimeter.
That's all for now folks. I will come back to say more later. For now,I will put my trust in God and ask him to help me accept whatever the out come. Some of you have made comments about being agnostic, or unbelievers, etc. For me, I don't think I could face something like this without putting my faith in God. I certainly need the doctor's, as well!
It's good to be here,
Michael
