I had two excisional biopsies done over a week ago and was very relieved when told that there was no cancer in either lesion.

The first biopsy was taken from behind my rear left molar where I have an area of leukoplakia. THis biopsy showed moderate and severe dysplasia with mild dysplasia in the margins.

The second biopsy was of an area of ulceration on the right side of my tongue (opposite to where a small SCC was removed in March). This showed moderate dysplasia and there was also mild dysplasia in the margins.

My ENT tells me that I have 'unstable' mucosa and that I will have to be closely monitored for the rest of my life. He is not proposing any further treatment for these current lesions. I should have asked him more questions because I do not know what to make of these results. Initially I was very relieved but now I am not so sure. Has anyone else had these types of results with biopsies? Should I be concerned about widespread dysplasia?

Sue --

More than a year ago, I came to these boards to ask about my husband's leukoplakia after an initial biopsy by an oral surgeon showed moderate dysplasia but warned of a possible "skip effect." Brian ended his reply to me with these words: "Keep an eye on this from now until forever."

A more thorough excisional biopsy a month later came back showing very-early-stage SCC. No further treatment was required, and my husband has been lucky that no other areas of concern have arisen (knock on wood!). He is checked every few months by an ENT at a top cancer center; in between those appointments, in an abundance of caution, he goes back to the local ENT who did the excisional biopsy.

I don't know if there are any in Australia, but in the US there are clinical trials of oral rinses and such to determine their effectiveness in dealing with dysplasia. Perhaps this is something you could discuss with your ENT, who sounds like he is on top of things.

All the best--
Leslie

Hi Leslie and Sue,
At the moment am checking OCF every other day after discovering the site a few weeks ago. Do not want to worry you however I had leukoplakia for many years and had a few biopsys done by dental surgeon's. In 2003 I had one done under a general in hospital (with other tests) as there were some concerns however this also turned out to be clear of cancer. I must let you know that I did not give up smoking at the time(heavy smoker). My dentist had been urging me during 2005 and 2006 to have another test. Had the biopsy in August 2006 which was positive and operation in September. Am doing OK now however neither of you mention smoking and again do not want to cause unnessary worry as my leukoplakia did eventually lead to cancer.
Cheers
Gabriele

Sue G, a friend has had severe dysplasia for probably 15 years or longer. She is closely monitored and has a biopsy every so often. She does not smoke or drink, and the situation has not changed in all those years. This may be the situation with you too, and I sincerely hope so. In any event, it is not an sutomatic progression to oral cancer.

Joanna, Gabe and Leslie,

Joanna,Gabe and Leslie, Thanks for your replies. I've never smoked so that is one risk that I don't have. I guess if I hadn't had the SCC on my tongue I wouldn't be as concerned by these areas of dysplasia - but maybe it is a good thing that I stay very vigilant, although obsessive is probably a better description at the moment! Regards....Sue