Differential Diagnosis for 1x1 cm Firm Swelling on Inner Aspect of Cheek
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Benign salivary gland tumor (e.g., pleomorphic adenoma): This is a common cause of firm, non-tender swellings in the cheek, especially in older adults.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Mucocele: A mucous-containing cyst that can form on the inner aspect of the cheek, often due to trauma or blockage of a salivary gland duct.
- Lipoma: A benign fatty tumor that can occur anywhere in the body, including the cheek.
- Fibroma: A benign tumor composed of fibrous tissue that can occur in the mouth, including the inner aspect of the cheek.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Squamous cell carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can occur on the inner aspect of the cheek, especially in older adults with a history of tobacco use.
- Adenoid cystic carcinoma: A rare but aggressive type of salivary gland cancer that can occur on the inner aspect of the cheek.
- Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can occur in the lymph nodes, including those in the head and neck region.
- Rare diagnoses
- Neurofibroma: A rare benign tumor that arises from nerve tissue and can occur on the inner aspect of the cheek.
- Granular cell tumor: A rare benign tumor that can occur on the inner aspect of the cheek, often associated with the tongue or other oral tissues.
- Dermoid cyst: A rare benign cyst that can occur on the inner aspect of the cheek, often present at birth or early childhood.