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Oral Lymphoma Presentation — MFDS Part 1 MCQ

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ModerateOral PathologyOral Lymphoma PresentationMFDS Part 1

Which clinical appearance is most typical of lymphoma presenting within the oral cavity?

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Correct answer: BA rapidly enlarging, broad-based soft-tissue swelling, with or without surface ulceration

Oral lymphoma most typically presents as a broad-based soft-tissue swelling or bulging mass, often enlarging relatively rapidly and sometimes showing surface ulceration. The appearance may resemble a reactive, inflammatory or dental lesion, contributing to delayed diagnosis. Intraosseous lymphoma can occur, but it is more likely to produce an ill-defined radiolucency, sometimes with unexplained pain, numbness or paraesthesia, rather than a well-circumscribed hard bony swelling. Bilateral reticular striae suggest oral lichen planus, recurrent vesicles suggest a herpetic disorder, and a regular flat pigmented macule is more consistent with a benign melanotic lesion. Persistent or unexplained swelling or ulceration requires urgent investigation and biopsy.

Reference: Höglund Wetter M, Mattsson U. Oral manifestations of extranodal lymphomas: a review of the literature with emphasis on clinical implications for the practicing dentist. Acta Odontologica Scandinavica. 2022;80(6):401-410. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35108151/