Metastatic carcinomas of oral cavity : A review

Metastasis is the spread of disease from one organ or part of it to another non-adjacent organ or part. When the cancer cells at the originating site become clinically detectable, it is called a primary tumour. Metastasis of systemic primary tumours to oral cavity is uncommon. Such metastatic carcinomas involve the jaw bones and the oral soft tissues. Metastatic carcinomas in oral region can be the first clinical manifestation of an undiagnosed primary systemic tumour. The symptoms of metastatic carcinoma depend on the location of the tumour. This article discusses the age and sex distribution, signs and symptoms, common metastasizing tumours, pathogenesis, investigations and management of metastatic carcinomas in the oral region.