Differential Diagnosis for Mouth Pain in an Elderly Woman
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Denture-related issues: Ill-fitting dentures, poor denture hygiene, or denture stomatitis can cause mouth pain in elderly women, especially if they wear dentures. This is a common issue due to the high prevalence of denture use in this age group.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Tooth decay or abscess: Elderly individuals may have difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay and abscesses.
- Gingivitis or periodontitis: Gum disease is common in older adults and can cause mouth pain, especially if left untreated.
- Dry mouth (xerostomia): Decreased saliva production can lead to mouth pain, difficulty swallowing, and an increased risk of tooth decay. This condition is common in elderly women, especially those taking certain medications.
- Oral lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause mouth pain, white patches, and redness in the mouth.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Oral cancer: Although less common, oral cancer can present with mouth pain, and it is crucial to rule out this diagnosis, especially in elderly individuals with a history of smoking or alcohol use.
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder: TMJ disorders can cause mouth pain, jaw pain, and difficulty chewing. While not typically life-threatening, missing this diagnosis can lead to significant morbidity.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: A condition characterized by sudden, severe facial pain, which can be mistaken for mouth pain.
Rare Diagnoses
- Burning mouth syndrome: A rare condition characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth, often without an identifiable cause.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dry mouth, mouth pain, and other systemic symptoms.
- Erythema multiforme: A rare skin condition that can cause mouth ulcers and pain, often in response to an infection or medication.