Overview
Metastatic malignant neoplasm to the mouth refers to cancer that has spread from another part of the body to the oral cavity. This is a rare occurrence, with the most common primary sites being the lung, breast, and skin 1.Diagnosis
Diagnosis is typically made via biopsy of the suspicious oral lesion 1.
Imaging studies may be used to identify the primary tumor and assess the extent of metastasis 1.Management
Management is primarily palliative and focuses on symptom control and improving quality of life 1.
Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the primary tumor type and patient's overall health 1.
Palliative care and pain management are crucial components of care 1.Key Recommendations
Oncology clinicians should use effective communication strategies to optimize the patient-clinician relationship, patient and clinician well-being, and caregiver well-being 1. (Evidence: Strong)
Discussions should include goals of care and prognosis 1. (Evidence: Strong)
Facilitating the involvement of the patient's support network is recommended 1. (Evidence: Strong)
Clinicians should receive training in communication skills 1. (Evidence: Strong)References
1 Gilligan T, Bohlke K, Alpert AB, Coyle N, Harichand-Herdt S, Lathan CS et al.. Patient-Clinician Communication: ASCO Guideline Update. Journal of clinical oncology : official journal of the American Society of Clinical Oncology 2026. link