Management of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Tongue in Pregnant Women: Report of 2 Patients

The incidence of tongue cancer in young pregnant women has increased. Choosing a treatment modality can be very difficult for these patients, and head and neck surgeons need to carefully manage them in collaboration with other caregivers. This article describes 2 patients in whom squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue manifested during pregnancy. The tumour was completely resected of for patient 1 and the pregnancy continued, while patient 2 received combined chemoradiotherapy after medical abortion. Tumour progression was well controlled for both patients. To manage tongue cancer in pregnant patients, the risks and benefits of intervention should be thoroughly discussed with couples while respecting the foetus' life. Informed consent should be obtained prior to application of appropriate therapies after thorough consultations with the obstetrician.