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The treatment of oral lesions involves the following steps:
- Diagnosis is usually made on clinical grounds with laboratory testing.
- Predisposing factors should be treated or eliminated where feasible.
- Good oral hygiene is important. Oral hygiene should include daily cleaning of the teeth, buccal cavity, tongue, and dentures.
- Topical antifungals given for 2 weeks are usually effective for uncomplicated oral candidiasis.
- Systemic antifungals should be given to patients intolerant to topical antifungals.
- Antiviral therapy should be given to patients with oral lesions of a viral cause.
What are the common oral lesions found?
Oral lesions are a public health challenge globally. The most common oral lesions include:
- Oral candidiasis: It is a localized infection and are of three types:
- Pseudomembranous/Thrush: This type is characterized by white plaques that can be wiped off.
- Erythematous: A roughly symmetric red lesion in the tongue along with a burning sensation.
- Perleche or angular cheilitis: It involves inflammation and small cracks in one or both corners of the mouth.
- Recurrent herpes labialis: Reactivation of infection with herpes simplex virus after an initial infection leads to recurrent herpes labialis. Reactivation occurs due to some of the trigger factors.
- Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: It is characterized by a small, shallow sore inside the mouth or at the base of the gum. These sores may be recurring and painful.
- Erythema migrans: It is a large rash measuring about 2-212 inch. These rashes expand gradually. Some patients may complain of pain or burning while eating spicy food.
- Hairy tongue: A temporary condition where the tongue appears dark and furry.
- Lichen planus: It is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects mucous membranes inside your mouth.