Causes

Why tongue cancer develops has not yet been fully clarified. However, it has been certainly established that external influences play a role. For example, the use of tobacco (especially in the form of pipe smoking) and the excessive consumption of alcohol seem to have a major influence on the development of tongue cancer.

Drugs can also have a damaging effect on the epithelium of the tongue, i.e. they can promote the development of tongue cancer. Inadequate oral hygiene, as well as chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane of the tongue, which can lead to tongue cancer.For example, badly fitting dentures also increase the probability of tongue cancer. In the area of leukoplakia (strong keratinization of the squamous epithelium of the tongue, which is a precancerous condition), squamous cell carcinomas (a form of tongue cancer) are more common.

HPV” is the term used to describe the “human papilloma virus”. There are over 150 different types of human papilloma viruses, only a few of which increase the risk of various cancers. These so-called “high-risk” types include, for example, HPV 16, 18, 45 and 31, which, among other things, increase the risk of developing various types of cancer of the mouth, throat and genitals after infection.

While in cervical cancer there is a clear link between the viral infection and the disease, in tongue cancer and other cancers of the oral cavity it is still being discussed whether an infection with HPV is a possible cause. It is currently not known how high the risk of developing tongue cancer from HPV infection is. However, it is estimated to be rather low.

Much more frequent triggers are smoking and alcohol consumption. HPV is usually transmitted through skin or mucous membrane contact during sex. Oral sex in particular can cause the pathogens to spread through the mouth, throat and tongue.

In addition, HP viruses can also be transmitted by shared towels or toothbrushes. Human papilloma viruses are generally very widespread. About 2/3 of all people suffer an infection during their lifetime.

This is usually not noticed and heals without consequences after a few months. Since the viruses are transmitted very easily, both partners are usually infected within a short time. The risk of infection can be reduced by using condoms.