C00-C14: Malignant neoplasms of lip, oral cavity and pharynx
C05: Malignant neoplasm of palate
Malignant neoplasm of the palate refers to a group of cancerous growths that primarily occur on the roof of the mouth, also known as the palate. This region includes hard palate at the front and the soft palate at the back. The exact causes of these cancers are not known; however, they're strongly associated with risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, exposure to certain human papillomaviruses, and previous radiation therapy in the head and neck region. Common symptoms often include a lump or sore on the palate that does not heal, difficulty swallowing, and speech changes. As the disease progresses, it can invade deeper tissues and spread to nearby lymph nodes, and possibly to other parts of the body. These malignancies are typically slow-growing but can cause significant functional and cosmetic concerns if not promptly managed.
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