2. Stage II: Localized Growth Deepens
Moving onto the second stage, we see that the cancer remains localized but starts to display more aggressive behavior. The tumor, though still confined to its place of origin, may grow slightly larger, ranging between 2 to 4 centimeters in diameter.
This growth presents itself with more noticeable symptoms. There’s an increased likelihood of experiencing pain or discomfort, especially when eating, drinking, or speaking. Unlike the initial stage, the signs become harder to ignore as they become more pronounced and persistent.
At a cellular level, these cancer cells continue their rapid multiplication, with the potential to invade deeper layers of the oral tissues. There’s a heightened urgency to act during this stage, given the aggressive nature of the tumor’s growth.
Interestingly, while the tumor remains localized, the risk of it spreading to nearby lymph nodes is still minimal. This factor plays a crucial role in shaping the treatment strategy, with the focus still largely on local therapies and procedures. (2)
