Name of the Condition

• Malignant neoplasm of anterior floor of mouth
• Also known as oral cancer specifically affecting the anterior (front) region of the mouth's floor.

Summary

• This condition refers to a cancerous growth located in the front area of the floor of the mouth, a crucial section under the tongue. It's a type of oral cancer that can affect speech, chewing, and swallowing.

Causes

• The primary causes include the consumption of tobacco (smoking or chewing) and alcohol. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can also be a contributing factor. Genetic mutations and prolonged irritation from poor-fitting dentures may also play a role.

Risk Factors

• Factors increasing the risk involve:
  • Tobacco use (smoking and chewing).
  • Excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Age (more common in individuals over 40).
  • HPV infection.
  • Poor oral hygiene.
  • Dietary deficiencies.

Symptoms

• Common symptoms include:
  • A persistent sore or ulcer in the mouth that does not heal.
  • Pain or difficulty when swallowing.
  • A lump or thickening in the floor of the mouth.
  • White or red patches in the mouth.
  • Swelling or pain in the jaw.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:
  • Physical examination by a healthcare professional.
  • Biopsy of suspicious areas.
  • Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRI, to assess the extent of the cancer.

Treatment Options

• Treatments vary based on the stage and may include:
  • Surgery: Removing the tumor from the mouth.
  • Radiotherapy: Using high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells.
  • Chemotherapy: Drugs that help to destroy cancer cells.
  • Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific cellular mechanisms to impede cancer growth.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis depends on the cancer stage at diagnosis. Early-stage detection usually leads to better outcomes. Regular follow-ups are crucial for monitoring recurrence and managing any post-treatment complications.

Complications

• If untreated, it can lead to:
  • Spread of cancer to adjacent structures and lymph nodes.
  • Impairment in speaking, chewing, and swallowing.
  • Nutritional deficiencies due to eating difficulties.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Preventive measures include:
  • Ceasing tobacco use and limiting alcohol consumption.
  • Practicing good oral hygiene.
  • Consuming a balanced diet.
  • Regular dental check-ups.

When to Seek Professional Help

• It's important to seek medical attention if you notice persistent sores, unusual lumps, or other changes in the mouth that last more than two weeks.

Additional Resources

• American Cancer Society: Oral Cavity and Oropharyngeal Cancer
• Oral Cancer Foundation: An Overview of Oral Cancer

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate coding by precisely identifying the tumor's location as the anterior floor of the mouth.
• Double-check documentation for any related procedures, such as biopsies or surgeries, to avoid coding errors.