Pathology · single question

The same patient has a well-circumscribed, asymptomatic dark mucosal spot at #28–29, not visible on radiographs. Most likely diagnosis:

  1. Malignant melanoma
  2. Amalgam tattoo
  3. Physiologic (melanotic) macule
  4. Varix
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Physiologic (melanotic) macule

  • A. Melanoma is irregular and concerning; a small, well-defined asymptomatic macule in a teen is far more likely benign.
  • B. Amalgam tattoo usually relates to a restoration/extraction site and may be radiopaque if particles are large.
  • C. Correct (keyed). A well-circumscribed, flat, asymptomatic pigmented spot that is radiographically invisible fits a physiologic melanotic macule.
  • D. A varix is a bluish vascular dilation (often ventral tongue/lip), blanchable, not a flat brown macule.

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