Differential Diagnosis for Sore on the Wall of the Mouth in Children
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Traumatic ulcer (e.g., from biting the cheek or mouth): This is the most common cause of mouth sores in children, often resulting from accidental bites during eating or speaking.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Aphthous ulcers (canker sores): These are common, recurrent, and often painful ulcers that can appear on the mucous membranes of the mouth, including the walls.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection: Primary HSV infection can cause multiple painful ulcers on the gums, tongue, and inside the mouth, including the walls.
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD): A viral illness that can cause sores in the mouth, including on the walls, along with a rash on the hands and feet.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Oral cancer: Although extremely rare in children, any persistent or unusual sore should be evaluated to rule out malignancy.
- Infectious mononucleosis (mono): Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, it can lead to oral ulcers and other systemic symptoms.
- Autoimmune disorders (e.g., pemphigus, pemphigoid): These conditions can cause blistering and ulcers in the mouth, including on the walls, and require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Erythema multiforme: A skin condition that can also affect the mucous membranes, causing ulcers and other lesions in the mouth.
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome: A severe form of skin and mucous membrane disorder, usually a reaction to medication or infection, which can cause oral ulcers among other symptoms.
- Behçet's disease: A rare disorder that causes blood vessel inflammation throughout the body and can lead to oral ulcers, among other symptoms.