Pathology · single question
A patient presents with extensive enamel erosion concentrated on the lingual (palatal) surfaces of the maxillary anterior teeth. What underlying condition should be strongly suspected?
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Correct answer: A. Bulimia nervosa (recurrent self-induced vomiting causes characteristic 'perimolysis' — acid erosion concentrated on the palatal surfaces of the maxillary anterior teeth)
Recurrent vomiting in bulimia nervosa exposes the palatal/lingual surfaces of the maxillary anterior teeth to repeated gastric acid, producing a characteristic erosion pattern called perimolysis — a classic, frequently tested diagnostic clue that should also prompt sensitive screening for an eating disorder and appropriate medical/psychological referral.