Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Oral candidiasis (thrush): This is a common condition that can cause visible lesions inside the mouth, particularly on one side. It's more likely to be visible in normal lighting and with a handheld pen light, and it often presents unilaterally.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Mucosal trauma or ulcer: Trauma to the mucous membranes inside the mouth can cause visible lesions or ulcers, which could be seen on one side of the mouth.
- Aphthous ulcers: These are small, painful ulcers that can appear inside the mouth, often on one side, and can be visible with normal lighting.
- Leukoplakia: This is a condition where thick, white patches or lesions form on the mucous membranes inside the mouth, which could be visible on one side.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Oral cancer: Although less likely, oral cancer can present as a visible lesion inside the mouth and is crucial to diagnose early. It may appear as a white patch, red patch, or an ulcer, and can be located on one side of the mouth.
- Tuberculosis (TB) of the oral cavity: TB can cause lesions or ulcers in the mouth, which might be visible on one side. Given the potential severity of TB, it's essential not to miss this diagnosis.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lichen planus: This is a rare condition that can cause white, lacy patches or lesions inside the mouth, which might be visible on one side.
- Pemphigus: A group of rare skin disorders that can cause blisters or lesions inside the mouth, potentially visible on one side.
- Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection that can cause lesions or ulcers in the mouth, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, and might be visible on one side of the mouth.