Differential Diagnosis for Tongue Lesion
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Traumatic ulcer: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common occurrence of tongue bites or other minor injuries that can cause ulcers on the tongue.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Aphthous ulcer: These are common, recurring ulcers that can appear on the tongue and other parts of the mouth, often due to stress, minor mouth injury, or certain foods.
- Oral candidiasis (thrush): A fungal infection that can cause white patches or red lesions on the tongue, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with poor oral hygiene.
- Leukoplakia: A condition where thick, white patches or lesions form on the tongue or other areas of the mouth, often related to chronic irritation or tobacco use.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Although less common, this is a serious diagnosis that could present as a non-healing ulcer or lesion on the tongue, emphasizing the importance of biopsy in persistent or suspicious cases.
- Tuberculosis: Oral lesions can be a manifestation of tuberculosis, especially in endemic areas or in individuals with compromised immune systems.
- Syphilis: The primary stage of syphilis can present with a painless ulcer (chancre) on the tongue or other parts of the mouth.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic ulcer: A rare condition characterized by an ulcerative lesion on the tongue, often associated with eosinophilia.
- Granuloma: Rarely, a granuloma can form on the tongue, which could be due to various causes including foreign body reaction or specific diseases like granulomatosis with polyangiitis.
- Melanoma: Although extremely rare, oral melanoma can present as a pigmented lesion on the tongue, requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment due to its aggressive nature.