Oral Cavity Carcinoma

A 58-year-old male farmer from rural Maharashtra presents with a 4-month history of a non-healing ulcer on the left buccal mucosa. He reports pain during mastication and occasional blood-stained saliva. On examination, the ulcer is 2 cm × 1.5 cm with raised, everted margins and indurated base. Regional lymph nodes are palpable and firm. Intraoral examination reveals leukoplakia in the surrounding mucosa. A biopsy confirms squamous cell carcinoma. Which of the following is the most important prognostic factor in oral cavity carcinoma?

A 62-year-old woman with a 20-year history of betel nut and tobacco chewing presents with a 3-month history of a painful ulcer on the left lateral border of the tongue. Examination shows an indurated ulcer with rolled margins, and palpation reveals a hard, fixed mass. Cervical lymph nodes are enlarged and firm. Biopsy confirms well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. CT imaging shows no distant metastases. The patient is counseled regarding treatment options. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial management for this T3N2M0 oral tongue cancer?

A 58-year-old woman with biopsy-confirmed squamous cell carcinoma of the anterior two-thirds of the tongue (T2N1M0) is being evaluated for treatment planning. Imaging shows a 3 cm primary tumor with a single ipsilateral lymph node (2 cm) and no distant metastases. She is medically fit for surgery. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

A 62-year-old male with a 30-year history of smoking and alcohol use presents with a lateral tongue mass. Histopathology reveals squamous cell carcinoma. What is the most common histologic type of oral cavity carcinoma?

Which clinical feature best distinguishes squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oral cavity from verrucous carcinoma?