What are the white bumps bilaterally on the buccal mucosa (mucous membrane inside the cheeks)?

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Differential Diagnosis for White Bumps Bilateral Inside of Cheeks of the Mouth

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Fordyce granules: These are small, white or yellowish bumps on the inside of the cheeks, lips, and sometimes the genital area. They are caused by the abnormal presence of sebaceous glands in the mucous membranes and are usually harmless.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Oral thrush (candidiasis): A fungal infection that can cause white patches or bumps on the inside of the cheeks, tongue, and other areas of the mouth.
    • Leukoplakia: A condition characterized by white patches or plaques on the mucous membranes of the mouth, often associated with chronic irritation or tobacco use.
    • Lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause white, lacy patches or bumps on the inside of the cheeks and other areas of the mouth.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Squamous cell carcinoma: A type of oral cancer that can present as white patches or bumps on the inside of the cheeks or other areas of the mouth.
    • Oral lymphoma: A type of cancer that can cause white patches or bumps on the inside of the cheeks or other areas of the mouth.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Darier's disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause white or yellowish bumps on the inside of the cheeks and other areas of the mouth.
    • White sponge nevus: A rare genetic disorder that can cause white, spongy patches or bumps on the inside of the cheeks and other areas of the mouth.
    • Pemphigus: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause white patches or bumps on the inside of the cheeks and other areas of the mouth.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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