Common benign and malignant oral mucosal disease.

BACKGROUND

Mucosal diseases of the oral cavity are relatively common, and patients often seek initial assessment from their general practitioner.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to provide an overview of common oral mucosal diseases to help with formulating a differential diagnosis and stratifying the urgency of referral.

DISCUSSION: Pathological mucosal conditions of the oral cavity and jaws commonly present as a mucosal ulcer or a white, red or pigmented lesion. In this review, the authors outline the most common conditions organised according to their clinical presentation and describe their typical appearance and management.