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Is The White Patch In The Back Of The Throat A Sign Of Oral Cancer Or Something Else?

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Posted on Thu, 23 Aug 2018
Question: I noticed this white patch in the back of my throat! What is this? A sign of oral cancer? It does not hurt. I can't get into my dentist for 3 weeks.
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (22 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
not likely

Detailed Answer:
Hello

This is not the most common reason for the white patch in the throat. In the majority of persons it is related to infection of the throat/sinuses or stones in the throat or allergies with post nasal drip of mucus.

Oral cancer is more common in older persons with a long term history of smoking or abusing alcohol. The average age of diagnosis is age 62.

The image sent does not show any alarming areas

If you remain unsure then you can consider seeing your ENT specialist who can assess you thoroughly.

Hope I have answered your query.

Take care,
Dr. Michelle Gibson James
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Is The White Patch In The Back Of The Throat A Sign Of Oral Cancer Or Something Else?

Brief Answer: not likely Detailed Answer: Hello This is not the most common reason for the white patch in the throat. In the majority of persons it is related to infection of the throat/sinuses or stones in the throat or allergies with post nasal drip of mucus. Oral cancer is more common in older persons with a long term history of smoking or abusing alcohol. The average age of diagnosis is age 62. The image sent does not show any alarming areas If you remain unsure then you can consider seeing your ENT specialist who can assess you thoroughly. Hope I have answered your query. Take care, Dr. Michelle Gibson James