Pathology · single question
A lesion on the tongue is being evaluated. The differential diagnosis includes all of the following EXCEPT which one?
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Correct answer: C. Pleomorphic adenoma
- A. Incorrect — schwannoma IS a valid differential. It can occur in the tongue as a smooth submucosal nodule from peripheral nerve Schwann cells.
- B. Incorrect — fibroma IS a valid differential. Fibromas are the most common oral soft tissue tumors and frequently occur on the tongue.
- C. Correct. Pleomorphic adenoma is the EXCEPTION. It arises from salivary glands. The tongue has very few minor salivary glands, making pleomorphic adenoma an UNLIKELY tongue lesion and NOT a standard differential for tongue masses.
- D. Incorrect — granular cell tumor IS a valid differential. It is one of the most common submucosal tongue lesions.