Pathology · single question

In the differential diagnosis of a lesion on the BUCCAL MUCOSA, which of the following would be LEAST likely to occur at this site?

  1. Schwannoma (neurilemmoma)
  2. Fibroma (traumatic fibroma)
  3. Nicotinic stomatitis
  4. Mucocele
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Nicotinic stomatitis

Nicotinic stomatitis (smoker's palate) occurs almost exclusively on the HARD PALATE — it is caused by heat and chemicals from pipe or cigar smoking affecting the palatal mucosa, resulting in white papular elevations with red dots (inflamed minor salivary gland orifices). It does NOT occur on the buccal mucosa. Schwannoma, fibroma, and mucocele can all occur on the buccal mucosa. Nicotinic stomatitis is site-specific to the palate.

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