Cancer of the tongue is a malignant tumor that begins as a small lump, a firm white patch, or an ulcer. If untreated, the tumor may spread throughout the mouth and to the rest of the body. As a tumor grows, it becomes more life threatening.
Tongue cancer is one of the more common and serious types of mouth cancer.
Although the exact cause is unknown, it most often occurs among pipe, cigar, and cigarette smokers and people who use smokeless tobacco. It also occurs in people who consume large amounts of alcohol and among denture wearers. It is rare in people under age 40, particularly women. It is most common in men over age 60. Tongue cancer begins as a small lump or thick white patch.