Differential Diagnosis for Sores on the Roof of the Mouth
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Aphthous ulcers (canker sores): These are the most common cause of sores on the roof of the mouth, characterized by small, painful, and shallow ulcers. They can be triggered by stress, minor mouth injury, or certain foods.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Oral herpes (HSV-1): This viral infection can cause painful sores or blisters on the roof of the mouth, often accompanied by fever and swollen lymph nodes.
- Traumatic ulcers: Accidental bites or burns from hot food and drinks can cause sores on the roof of the mouth.
- Denture-related trauma: Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation and sores on the roof of the mouth.
- Oral lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause white patches, redness, and sores on the mucous membranes inside the mouth, including the roof.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Oral cancer: Although less common, sores on the roof of the mouth can be a sign of oral cancer, particularly if they are persistent, growing, or accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty swallowing or a lump in the neck.
- Tuberculosis: In rare cases, TB can manifest as oral lesions, including sores on the roof of the mouth, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
- Syphilis: The secondary stage of syphilis can cause mucous patches or sores in the mouth, including on the roof.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Eosinophilic ulcer: A rare condition characterized by a solitary, painful ulcer on the oral mucosa, including the roof of the mouth, often associated with eosinophilia.
- Behçet's disease: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause recurrent oral ulcers, including on the roof of the mouth, along with genital ulcers and eye inflammation.
- Pemphigus vulgaris: A rare autoimmune disease that causes blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, including the mouth, which can lead to sores on the roof of the mouth.