Pathology

Tri-County Oral-Facial Surgeons, P.C., specializes in the treatment of oral cancer. Our practice is experienced in providing the most up-to-date diagnosis and treatment of oral and head and neck cancer with Dr. Stephen Engroff, a fellowship trained oral and maxillofacial oncologist.

The diagnosis of oral cancer is made by a biopsy of a suspicious lesion. Not all lesions that need to be removed are malignant. At times, cysts may form, particularly at the root of the tooth, and may need to be removed and biopsied. Benign tumors may form from cysts, and some cysts may behave aggressively and recur. If a tumor is benign, it’s necessary to carefully monitor it as changes might occur over time and cause additional health problems.

A lesion that is malignant may start in the lining of the mouth and grow relatively slowly. If unchecked, it may reach a certain size or depth of invasion and spread to a local lymph node in the neck. A biopsy is done to evaluate the size of the cancer, involvement of any lymph nodes, and determine if there is additional metastasis. This is known as staging. Biopsies are sent to Mount Nittany Medical Center to be evaluated by a local pathologist.

Treatment options and recommendations occur after staging. Tri-County surgeons work with Mount Nittany Medical Center to ensure the highest quality care for their patients. With the opening of the new Cancer Center at Mount Nittany Medical Center, our patients and their families will have access to an improved environment for healing and care.

Although oral cancer is relatively common in the U.S., patients who are diagnosed in the early stages generally have good prognoses. It’s important not to ignore suspicious lumps or sores. Contact Tri-County Oral-Facial Surgeons, P.C. so we may help you.