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Pathology · single question

Which of the following BEST defines a 'macula' (macule) in oral pathology terminology?

  1. Well-circumscribed, flat lesion with color change
  2. Well-circumscribed lesion that protrudes above the surface
  3. Irregular borders, raised lesion
  4. Irregular borders, flat lesion
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Correct answer: A. Well-circumscribed, flat lesion with color change

A macule = flat, well-circumscribed area of color change in mucosa/skin, <1cm. No surface elevation or depression.
  • A. CORRECT. A macule is defined as a flat, well-circumscribed lesion showing a color change from normal tissue. It does not have any elevation or depression — purely a color change. >1cm = patch.
  • B. A lesion that protrudes above the surface with distinct borders describes a papule (small, solid, raised) or nodule.
  • C. An irregular border, raised lesion suggests potentially malignant or inflammatory processes — not a macule.
  • D. A flat lesion with irregular borders would be a patch with irregular borders — not the standard macule definition.

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