Perioral lesions and dermatoses

Differential Diagnosis of Pigmented Lesions in the Oral Mucosa: A Clinical Based Overview and Narrative Review

This paper examines the clinical differentiation of pigmented lesions in the oral mucosa, which poses significant diagnostic challenges across dental and medical disciplines due to their spectrum from benign to potentially malignant conditions. Through a literature review and analysis of clinical cases, this study clarifies current diagnostic methodologies, with an emphasis on differential diagnosis, to provide a practical guide for clinicians. The classification of pigmented lesions, such as endogenous, focal melanocytic, and multifocal pigmentation, based on clinical and histological features, highlights the necessity for a structured and informed approach. A retrospective examination of cases from our oral medicine and pathology clinic, coupled with analysis of photographic and histological records, aids in classifying these lesions. This fosters a better understanding and promotes informed discussions among clinicians, ultimately aiming to enhance early and precise diagnosis, thus improving patient management and outcomes.

Sore or Swollen Lips Part 2: Systemic Causes

This series of three papers reviews the causes, diagnosis and differential diagnosis, and outlines the management of sore and/or swollen lips. Clinical relevance: Sore and/or swollen lips are not uncommon, often have a local cause, but may reflect a systemic disease. The previous article reviewed important causes, from actinic to contact cheilitis, while this paper starts with drug-induced cheilitis and completes that alphabetical list.