**Core Concept**
Carcinoma of the tongue is a type of head and neck cancer that originates from the squamous epithelial cells lining the tongue. It is a common malignancy worldwide, particularly in regions with high tobacco and alcohol consumption. The pathogenesis of tongue cancer involves chronic irritation, genetic mutations, and environmental factors.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the characteristics of carcinoma of the tongue. One key aspect is its relatively high recurrence rate, especially if not treated promptly. This is due to the proximity of the tongue to vital structures such as the mandible, hyoid bone, and larynx. Additionally, the anatomy of the tongue, with its complex network of lymphatic vessels, facilitates the spread of cancer cells.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:**
Carcinoma of the tongue is typically not associated with a high rate of distant metastasis, particularly compared to other head and neck cancers. This makes option A incorrect, as distant metastasis is not a characteristic feature of tongue cancer.

**Option B:**
While lymph node metastasis is a common feature of tongue cancer, option B is too vague and does not accurately describe the specific characteristics of tongue cancer. Therefore, it is an incorrect option.

**Option C:**
This option is incorrect as carcinoma of the tongue typically arises from the squamous epithelial cells, not the mucous glands.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical point to remember is that carcinoma of the tongue often presents with a painless, indurated ulcer or nodule on the tongue, which may be accompanied by dysphagia, dysphonia, or other symptoms depending on the size and location of the lesion.

**Correct Answer:** C.