skip to main content

Leukoplakia with Dysplasia — NDEB AFK MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateOral PathologyLeukoplakia with DysplasiaNDEB AFK

A 60-year-old male smoker presents with a non-healing white patch on the ventral tongue that has been present for 3 months. Biopsy shows epithelial dysplasia. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Excisional biopsy with clear margins

A white patch (leukoplakia) on the ventral tongue in a smoker with biopsy-confirmed dysplasia has significant malignant potential. The ventral tongue and floor of mouth are high-risk sites for malignant transformation. Excisional biopsy with clear margins is the standard of care for dysplastic leukoplakia. Smoking cessation is important but insufficient alone. Long-term follow-up is essential as recurrence is possible.

Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016