There is information on the types of biopsy that may be done for oral cancer on this page from the NHS website. You can also read more about mouth cancer biopsies on our website here and information about tongue cancer can be found here.
Many members of our forum have had a tongue biopsy before and I hope that they will be along shortly to share their experience with you. [@AGAP] for example posted this thread recently and would be able to tell you more about the biopsy itself. [@JT2020] would be another great person for you to connect with as they mentioned on this thread having had a tongue biopsy recently. If you type in the keywords 'tongue biopsy' on our search function, you will be able to see other past relevant threads on the subject and feel free to respond to any you would like to engage with.
I will now let our members who have had a tongue biopsy before come and say hello and share their story with you.
When Is your appointment? I had a lump removed from my tongue just under two weeks ago that has been sent off for testing. The procedure itself was fine and my tongue was very numb so I didn't feel a thing. The most uncomfortable thing was someone holding my tongue out while they did it.
The following days I'm not going to lie were very painful though. Please make sure you have plenty of painkillers. Co dine and ibroprofin seemed to help me the most. I’m 11 days post lump removal now and I'm finally able to eat normally and I’m not having to take painkillers throughout the day.
Thank you for your reply and so sorry it has taken so long to write back.
I saw an ANP at my apointment (Advanced Nurse Practioner) at the surgery and she said she didn't think it was anything to worry about. A well meaning friend (and a good and caring one) has since said that I ought to see a dentist as well, to make sure! It is so difficult to see a GP these days and I thought I was going to see one as the phone consultation was with one, but they had booked me in to see the nurse. The nurse was thorough and the concensus seemed to be that she would be experienced enough to tell. My friend's well meaning advice has obviously put doubt in my mind so I am in a quandary at the moment as to what to do.....
Anyway, how have things gone for you? Have you had the results of your biopsy yet? I do hope all went well.
Bless you, is it a lump you have or a white patch?
if you're still concerned a visit to the dentist can't hurt to put your mind at ease.
was the nurse at your own doctors or at the hospital?
im still waiting on my results unfortunately. I chased them last week and got told they are currently taking 6-8 weeks to come back even on the two week wait pathway ♀️
I hope you get sorted soon and can put your mind at ease.
How are you and have you received your results yet? Been thinking about you. It's such a scary time and the waiting is awful. I do hope you've had them and it's good news. Was yours a white patch?
Mine is a raised area about 1 1/2 cm long and 1 cm deep on the left side of my tongue. About the same colour as my tongue. Maybe a lighter bit along the bottom. And ironically, just three days after my appointment, a lesion appeared on the other side of my tongue! A tiny white patch/bump this time. Also, above a receding gum (top) there is a bit of a raised area/blob/bump?? and a tiny white shard of tooth/bone? Anyway, it's raised and looks most odd so I am back to the doctors on Wednesday. He said it needs checking! At least I am booked in to see a doctor this time. That's three things. I admit, I am very frightened as the worst case scenario is most unpleasant.
Anyway, do let me know how you are getting on and whether you've received your results.
Well off to the docs again today. Something suspicious on my gum this time. Sigh. Pretty sure I will be referred and if anyone who has had a gum biopsy could enlighten me, I would be very grateful.
Well, the doctor was totally dismissive saying it wasn't her area of expertise and to go to a dentist. She flashed the torch in my mouth for all of a nanosecond then backed away. It was all very strange.
So, I am not better off and now trying to find a dentist.
