Pathology · single question
A patient has a white lesion that CAN be wiped off. Which diagnosis should be excluded from the differential?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Leukoplakia
- A. Correct. Leukoplakia is by definition a white plaque that CANNOT be scraped off and cannot be attributed to any other condition. Wipeability immediately excludes it.
- B. A chemical burn produces a sloughing necrotic membrane that wipes away.
- C. Pseudomembranous candidiasis is the classic wipeable white lesion, leaving an erythematous base.
- D. Materia alba and debris wipe off readily.