Differential Diagnosis for White Plaque Lesion in Mouth
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Oral thrush (candidiasis): This is the most common cause of white plaque lesions in the mouth, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with poor oral hygiene. The lesions are typically removable and may be accompanied by erythema and bleeding.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Leukoplakia: A potentially malignant lesion that appears as a white plaque and cannot be rubbed off. It is often associated with tobacco use and may progress to oral cancer.
- Lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause white, lacy patches in the mouth, often accompanied by erosive lesions.
- Oral hairy leukoplakia: A condition seen in immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV, characterized by white patches on the lateral surface of the tongue.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Oral cancer: Although less common, a white plaque lesion could be a sign of oral cancer, particularly if it is persistent, non-removable, and accompanied by other symptoms like pain, bleeding, or difficulty swallowing.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pemphigus vulgaris: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause white plaques and blisters in the mouth, often accompanied by skin lesions.
- White sponge nevus: A rare genetic condition that causes white, spongy lesions in the mouth, typically on the buccal mucosa.
- Darier's disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause white or yellowish plaques in the mouth, often accompanied by skin and nail lesions.