Differential Diagnosis for Small Tissue Masses on the Inside Lip
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Fordyce spots: These are small, yellowish or white bumps on the lips and inside of the mouth that are caused by the abnormal presence of sebaceous glands in the mucous membrane. They are benign and very common.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Mucous cysts: These are small, fluid-filled bumps that can appear on the inside of the lips due to the obstruction of salivary gland ducts. They are usually harmless but can be annoying.
- Oral papillomas: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these are small, benign growths that can appear on the lips, tongue, or elsewhere inside the mouth.
- Lip biting or sucking habits: Repeatedly biting or sucking on the inside of the lip can cause small tissue masses or bumps due to irritation and inflammation.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Although less common, any unusual growth or mass in the mouth, including on the inside of the lips, could potentially be a sign of oral cancer. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Leukoplakia: This condition involves the formation of white patches or plaques on the mucous membranes inside the mouth, including the lips, which can sometimes be precancerous.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Angioedema: A rare condition characterized by the rapid swelling of the skin and mucous membranes, which can sometimes present as small tissue masses on the inside of the lips, though it typically involves more significant swelling.
- Pyogenic granuloma: A type of inflammatory hyperplasia that can appear as a small, reddish bump on the inside of the lip, often in response to local irritation or trauma.
- Oral lymphoid hyperplasia: A rare condition where there is an overgrowth of lymphoid tissue in the mouth, which can sometimes appear as small masses on the inside of the lips.