Differential Diagnosis for White Bumps on the Back of the Mouth
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Oral thrush (candidiasis): This is a common fungal infection that can cause white bumps or patches on the mucous membranes of the mouth, including the back of the mouth. It is often seen in individuals with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or those who wear dentures.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Leukoplakia: A condition characterized by white patches or plaques on the mucous membranes of the mouth, which can be caused by chronic irritation, such as from smoking or chewing tobacco.
- Fordyce spots: Small, white or yellowish bumps on the mucous membranes of the mouth, particularly on the lips, inside of the cheeks, and back of the mouth, which are caused by the presence of sebaceous glands.
- Oral lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause white, lacy patches or bumps on the mucous membranes 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 mucous membranes of the mouth, which is often associated with a history of smoking or tobacco use.
- Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can affect the lymphoid tissue in the back of the mouth, which can cause white bumps or masses.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Oral hairy leukoplakia: A rare condition characterized by white patches or bumps on the mucous membranes of the mouth, particularly on the sides of the tongue, which is often associated with immunosuppression, such as in HIV/AIDS.
- Pemphigus: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause blisters or white bumps on the mucous membranes of the mouth, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.