Differential Diagnosis of Overgrowth Lesions of the Inner Lower Lip
The following differential diagnosis is organized into categories to facilitate a thorough evaluation of the possible causes of overgrowth lesions on the inner lower lip.
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Irritation fibroma: This is a common, benign lesion that can occur on the inner lower lip due to chronic irritation, such as from a sharp tooth edge or poorly fitting dentures. Its high prevalence in this location makes it a likely candidate.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Mucocele: A mucocele is a mucous-containing cystic lesion that can occur on the inner lower lip, often due to trauma or obstruction of a salivary gland duct. It presents as a soft, painless swelling.
- Pyogenic granuloma: This is a vascular lesion that can appear as a rapidly growing, bleeding polyp on the inner lower lip, often in response to irritation or trauma.
- Traumatic fibroma: Similar to irritation fibroma but specifically caused by trauma, this lesion can also present as an overgrowth on the inner lower lip.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Although less common, this malignant tumor can present as an overgrowth lesion on the inner lower lip. It is crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its potential for serious consequences if missed.
- Salivary gland tumors (e.g., adenoid cystic carcinoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma): These can present as swellings on the inner lower lip and, while rare, their potential malignancy makes them important not to miss.
Rare Diagnoses
- Granular cell tumor: A rare, usually benign tumor that can occur on the tongue or inner lips, presenting as a firm, painless nodule.
- Neurofibroma: A benign tumor of nerve tissue that can rarely occur on the inner lower lip, especially in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1.
- Lipoma: A benign tumor of fat tissue that can very rarely occur on the inner lower lip, presenting as a soft, movable mass.