Lip cancer occurs when there is abnormal growth of cancer cells in the lips. Lip cancer is commonly classified with other cancers of the oral cavity. According to the University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, the oral cavity includes the tongue, gums, cheeks, lips and the hard palate. Upon diagnosis, lip cancer is staged according to the extent of the disease. Stages 0 through II are referred to as the beginning stages of lip cancer.
Stage 0
According to the National Cancer Institute, stage 0, also known as carcinoma in situ, consists of abnormal cells that are found within the lining of the lips. Although these cells are not cancerous, over time the abnormalities may become malignant and spread to other areas of the body. Treatment at this stage involves surgical stripping, a process that removes the top layer of tissues and leaves a small amount of healthy tissue, explains the American Cancer Society. In the case of recurring abnormal cells, radiation may be warranted.
Stage 1
Stage I lip cancer is defined cancerous cells that are less than 2 cm, immobile and have not spread to other tissues, lymph nodes or organs. Treatment for stage 2 lip cancer consists of surgery. However, if the tumor is large, further surgery or radiation may be advised, notes the American Cancer Society. Micographic surgery may also be performed. During this procedure, the tumor is cut into thin slices and examined thoroughly. This procedure is repeated until no cancer cells are seen under the microscope. If there is leftover tumor, radiation is considered on case by case basis.
Stage II
The Cleveland Clinic describes stage II lip cancer as less than 4 cm but larger than 2 cm and has not matriculated to the lymph nodes. This is important because if the cancer spreads to the lymph nodes, it can be distributed to other areas of the body through the bloodstream. According to the American Cancer Society, treatment for stage II lip cancer is similar to stage I. If the tumor is very thick, a biopsy may be performed to determine if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.
