Oropharyngeal cancer: a clinical case report

Abstract

Introduction: The National Cancer Institute (INCA) estimates that for each year of the triennium 2020/2022, 15,190 new cases of cancer in the mouth and oropharynx are diagnosed in Brazil. In the global context, oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is in the sixth position of cancer incidence. The most frequent form, about 90%, is squamous cell carcinomas. Objective: It was to present a clinical case report of oropharyngeal cancer in an octogenarian patient, to present the main diagnostic and treatment procedures in advanced age. Methods: The present study was elaborated according to the rules of the CARE case report. Scientific search engines: PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), published in Portuguese in the last 10 years. Case report and Conclusion: Based on the objective of this study and the literary findings, it showed that knowledge about OPC is essential for dental professionals, which plays a fundamental role in the diagnosis of oral cancers, requiring incisional biopsy. From the case described, it became evident the need for a partnership with a licensed psychologist, for the psychological preparation of the patient who will receive the news of the positive result for oropharyngeal cancer and the follow-up of the same throughout the treatment.