Oral cavity cancer is characterized by rapid progression and a tendency for early metastasis. From the onset of initial symptoms to the appearance of metastases, only 6–12 months may pass, during which the tumor often progresses to more advanced stages.
This is an aggressive form of cancer that commonly affects the regional lymph nodes in the neck early on.
Particularly rapid is the progression of tongue mucosal cancer, which typically requires intensive therapy even at Stage I.
Thus, oral cavity cancer is marked by fast growth and a high tendency to metastasize. These features must be taken into account when choosing a treatment strategy, especially in early stages.
Is Remission Possible in Stage III and IV Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Patients with Stage III and IV squamous cell carcinoma of the oral cavity often show positive treatment responses and still have a reasonable chance of recovery. This is mainly because oral cancer rarely causes distant metastases, which often results in a relatively favorable prognosis.
The likelihood of recovery strongly depends on the stage of the disease. Despite the spread of the tumor, about 40–60% of patients with Stage III or IV can recover.
5-Year Survival Rates for Oral Cavity Cancer
| Stage | 5-Year Survival Rate |
|---|---|
| I | 90–100% |
| II | 60–80% |
| III | ~50% |
| IV | Poor prognosis |
How Does Cancer Stage Affect Treatment Outcomes?
The stage of the disease plays a crucial role in determining the prognosis and treatment outcomes for patients with oral cavity cancer. Unfortunately, over 65% of patients seek medical help only at Stage III or IV.
This delay is due to a combination of patients underestimating symptoms and a lack of attention from primary care providers, especially dentists, to early signs of cancer.
At later stages, the tumor becomes more aggressive and often metastasizes, significantly reducing the chances of cure. Statistically, only about 50% of Stage III–IV patients are successfully treated.
However, with early detection (before the tumor reaches 2 cm in diameter), cure rates reach up to 90%. Thus, early diagnosis is directly linked to treatment success and patient survival.