Differential Diagnosis for White Oral Lesion of Soft Palate after Burn

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Thermal burn injury with subsequent formation of a white patch or lesion due to mucosal damage and potential infection: This is the most direct consequence of a burn to the soft palate, leading to tissue damage and possible infection, which could manifest as a white lesion.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Oral candidiasis (thrush): A common opportunistic infection, especially after trauma or burns, which can cause white patches on the mucous membranes.
  • Chemical burn: If the burn was caused by a chemical, the lesion could be a result of the chemical's caustic effect on the mucosa.
  • Mucositis: Inflammation of the mucous membranes, which can occur after a burn and may present with white lesions or patches.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Necrotizing soft tissue infection: Although less common, any burn can lead to severe infections, including necrotizing fasciitis, which is life-threatening and requires immediate intervention.
  • Oral squamous cell carcinoma: Though rare in this context, any persistent or unusual lesion, especially in smokers or those with a history of oral cancer, should prompt consideration of malignancy to ensure early detection and treatment.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Lichen planus: An autoimmune condition that can cause white, lacy patches in the mouth, though it's less likely to be directly related to a burn.
  • Leukoplakia: A condition where thick, white patches or lesions form on the tongue, the inside of the cheeks, or on the floor of the mouth, often linked to chronic irritation or tobacco use, and has a potential for malignant transformation.
  • Pemphigus vulgaris: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, including the mouth, though it's not typically the first consideration after a burn.