Fuente de la imagen, Anthony Perriam
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- Autor, Leigh Boobyer
- Título del autor, BBC Galés
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Tiempo de lectura: 5 min
A father of two nearly lost his tongue after a small lump under his jaw was diagnosed as cancer.
Anthony Perriam visited his primary care physician after first noticing the lump, and weeks later received a diagnosis of head and neck cancer linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV). This case highlights the importance of promptly investigating any unusual lumps or changes in the body.
HPV is a common group of viruses that affect the skin, and most people experience no problems from infection. However, certain types can cause cancer or genital warts.
“I had only heard of HPV in relation to cervical cancer. I had no idea it could cause cancers like this, especially in men,” explained Anthony, from Cardiff, Wales.
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Anthony added, “I experience lucky to still be able to eat and speak, but if I had left it any longer, I could have lost my tongue or even died.”
According to NHS Wales, most people who become infected with HPV clear the virus from their bodies. However, it can cause genital warts or, less commonly, lead to cancer, most frequently head and neck cancer in men and cervical cancer in women.
Vaccination against HPV is recommended in many countries for children aged 12 and 13, as well as for individuals at higher risk of infection.
“If you notice a lump, even if it’s not painful, get it checked out,” Anthony urged. “This type of cancer isn’t talked about enough, especially in men. Early detection saves lives.”
Fuente de la imagen, Anthony Perriam
Despite experiencing no symptoms, a CT scan, biopsy, and MRI confirmed the diagnosis in March 2023.
“At that point I had a three-year-old and a six-year-old. My first thought wasn’t for myself, but for them. I was absolutely terrified for them,” the 41-year-old said.
Anthony had 44 lymph nodes removed from his neck, and the primary tumor on the base of his tongue was ultimately located using robotic-assisted surgery.
“I was told it was caught just in time,” he commented.
“One of the lymph nodes was about to burst. If it had gone a little further, it would have spread.”
Fuente de la imagen, Anthony Perriam
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy were grueling, and Anthony lost 44 pounds.
“I lost all my saliva,” he said.
“Even drinking was difficult, as everything turned to dust in my mouth.”
“I was so weak that I eventually needed a wheelchair.”
“Being wheeled down the corridor to radiotherapy was starting to affect my mental health.
“But my family gave me the motivation to get through it, and I wanted to live to celebrate my 40th birthday.”
Understanding HPV
HPV affects the skin, and there are more than 100 different types. This information is crucial as HPV is a widespread virus with varying health implications.
It can be contracted through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and by sharing sex toys.
The vaccine is most effective when given to children aged 12 and 13.
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board states that the vaccine has reduced rates of cervical cancer by almost 90% in women in their twenties since its introduction in 2008.
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