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Squamous cell carcinoma — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateOral PathologySquamous cell carcinomaNDEB AFK

A 64-year-old smoker has a non-healing indurated ulcer on the lateral tongue for six weeks. The ulcer has rolled borders and bleeds on palpation. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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

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Correct answer: C — Oral squamous cell carcinoma

A persistent indurated lateral tongue ulcer in a smoker is oral squamous cell carcinoma until proven otherwise. Aphthous ulcers are usually painful, non-indurated, and heal within a shorter period. The pearl is that any unexplained oral ulcer persisting beyond two to three weeks warrants urgent biopsy or referral.

Reference: Canadian oral pathology/oral medicine reference texts; NDEB KSAs 2024