Pathology · single question
A patient presents with a cauliflower-like lesion on the tongue. What is the most likely diagnosis?
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Correct answer: C. Papilloma
- A. Fibroma presents as a smooth, sessile, pink dome-shaped lesion — not a cauliflower appearance.
- B. SCC can present as exophytic lesion but is usually associated with induration and ulceration, not a typical cauliflower/verrucous appearance in a simple scenario.
- C. Correct. Oral papilloma (caused by HPV types 6 and 11) classically presents as a white or pink exophytic lesion with a cauliflower or finger-like surface on the tongue, palate, or lips.
- D. Verrucous carcinoma is a low-grade malignancy with a similar appearance but is much less common; papilloma is the more likely diagnosis for a cauliflower lesion on the tongue.