Rick, here goes:
I was diagosed with SCC, pharyngeal cancer last Nov. that was very near voice box so they couldn't operate first without removing it. I don't know what stage it was but the surgeon said it was "bulky." I had gone to an ENT because I was having trouble swallowing and there was a beginning-to-be painful lump on the left side of my throat. At the same time there was a small lesion, also SCC, under my tongue, same side. Dr. wanted to wait until radiation (total of 33, with 7 Erbitux treatments) was finished before removing it. I haven't had a PET scan yet--was scheduled for last week then this surgery came up so now I have to wait again. I was scoped last month and there were no visible signs of cancer left in the throat, but of course a scan will be the final "judge." Strange, but I was never bothered by the lesion under my tongue so I can't say anything about that part. I'm just waiting now for May 8 when I go for a follow-up. My tongue is still swollen and painful so it's even hard to get a sip of water down. Wish I could tell you more--good luck and keep us posted. Becky