Dark Spots Inside Cheek: Causes, Treatment, and When to Seek Medical Attention
What are the common causes of dark spots inside the cheek. How are these spots treated. When should you seek medical help for dark spots in your mouth.
Understanding Dark Spots Inside the Cheek: An Overview
Dark spots inside the cheek can be a source of concern for many individuals. These spots, which can range from brown to black in color, may appear suddenly or develop over time. While most cases are benign and resolve on their own, it’s crucial to understand the potential causes and know when to seek medical attention.
The occurrence of dark spots inside the cheek can be attributed to various factors, ranging from harmless conditions like blood blisters to more serious issues such as oral melanoma. By exploring the different causes, treatments, and warning signs, we can better equip ourselves to handle these situations effectively.
Common Causes of Dark Spots in the Mouth
Blood Blisters: A Common Culprit
Blood blisters are a frequent cause of dark spots inside the cheek. These raised bubbles filled with blood can appear dark red or purple. They often result from accidental cheek biting or allergic reactions. While they may cause temporary discomfort, blood blisters are generally harmless and heal without intervention.
Amalgam Tattoos: A Dental Side Effect
Have you ever noticed dark marks in your mouth after a dental procedure? These could be amalgam tattoos. They occur when tiny metal fragments from dental fillings become embedded in the soft tissues of the mouth. Typically appearing near the site of the filling, these marks are harmless and require no treatment.
Smoker’s Melanosis: The Impact of Tobacco
For those who smoke, dark pigmentation inside the mouth and throat, known as smoker’s melanosis, is a common occurrence. While this condition itself is not harmful, it serves as a visible reminder of the detrimental effects of smoking on oral and overall health.
Serious Conditions Associated with Dark Spots in the Mouth
Oral Melanoma: A Rare but Serious Concern
Oral melanoma, though rare, is a serious condition that can manifest as dark spots in the mouth. These cancerous lesions typically appear as raised areas with a black, brown, or dark blue color. Unlike skin melanomas, oral melanomas are not linked to sun exposure. The exact risk factors are not fully understood, but may include dental irritation, smoking, and alcohol consumption.
Addison’s Disease: When Hormones Play a Role
Addison’s disease, an endocrine disorder affecting the adrenal glands, can lead to the development of darker areas on the skin and inside the mouth. This condition is characterized by insufficient production of cortisol and aldosterone hormones. Alongside dark spots, individuals with Addison’s disease may experience chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, and weight loss.
Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome: A Genetic Link
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare genetic condition that causes dark freckles to appear around the face and inside the mouth. This syndrome is also associated with the development of polyps throughout the gastrointestinal tract. While there is no cure for Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, management often involves surgical removal of problematic polyps.
Treatment Options for Dark Spots Inside the Cheek
The treatment for dark spots inside the cheek largely depends on the underlying cause. In many cases, such as with blood blisters or amalgam tattoos, no treatment is necessary as these conditions resolve on their own. However, for more serious conditions, specific treatments may be required:
- Blood Blisters: Over-the-counter pain relief medication can help manage any discomfort.
- Smoker’s Melanosis: While the condition itself doesn’t require treatment, quitting smoking is strongly advised to prevent further oral health issues.
- Oral Melanoma: The primary treatment is surgery, often accompanied by radiation therapy.
- Addison’s Disease: Treatment involves hormone replacement therapy, including corticosteroids and fludrocortisone.
- Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome: Management may involve surgical removal of problematic polyps.
Diagnostic Procedures for Dark Spots in the Mouth
When presented with dark spots inside the cheek, healthcare professionals employ various diagnostic methods to determine the cause. These may include:
- Physical Examination: A thorough inspection of the spots, assessing their appearance, size, and location.
- Medical History Review: Evaluating the patient’s medical background for potential genetic conditions or relevant health issues.
- Dental Records Analysis: Checking for the presence of metal fillings that could explain amalgam tattoos.
- Additional Tests: Depending on the initial assessment, further tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
Is a biopsy always necessary for diagnosing dark spots in the mouth? Not always. While a biopsy can provide definitive answers in some cases, many dark spots can be diagnosed through visual examination and patient history alone. However, if there’s suspicion of a more serious condition like oral melanoma, a biopsy may be recommended.
Prevention and Oral Health Maintenance
While not all causes of dark spots inside the cheek are preventable, maintaining good oral hygiene and making healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of developing certain conditions. Here are some preventive measures:
- Practice good oral hygiene by brushing twice daily and flossing regularly.
- Avoid tobacco use and limit alcohol consumption.
- Attend regular dental check-ups for early detection of any oral health issues.
- Be mindful when eating to prevent accidental cheek biting.
- Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall oral health.
Can a healthy diet prevent dark spots from forming inside the cheek? While a nutritious diet alone cannot prevent all types of dark spots, it can contribute to overall oral health. Certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and zinc, play crucial roles in maintaining healthy oral tissues and may help prevent some types of discoloration.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many dark spots inside the cheek are harmless, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention. These include:
- Persistent dark spots that don’t heal within two weeks
- Spots that increase in size or change in appearance
- Accompanying symptoms such as pain, bleeding, or difficulty swallowing
- Multiple spots appearing simultaneously
- Family history of oral cancer or genetic conditions affecting the mouth
How quickly should you consult a healthcare professional if you notice a dark spot inside your cheek? If the spot persists for more than two weeks or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s advisable to seek medical attention promptly. Early detection and diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes, especially in cases of potentially serious conditions like oral melanoma.
The Psychological Impact of Oral Dark Spots
The presence of dark spots inside the cheek can have psychological effects on individuals, potentially impacting their self-esteem and social interactions. Some people may feel self-conscious about their appearance or worry about the underlying cause of the spots. It’s important to address these concerns:
- Seek professional advice to understand the nature of the spots and alleviate anxiety.
- Communicate openly with friends and family about any concerns.
- Consider joining support groups if the spots are related to a chronic condition.
- Focus on overall oral health and well-being rather than fixating on the spots.
How can one cope with the anxiety of having visible dark spots inside the cheek? Open communication with healthcare providers is key. Understanding the nature of the spots and knowing they are often benign can greatly reduce anxiety. If the spots are causing significant distress, consider speaking with a mental health professional who can provide coping strategies and support.
Advances in Oral Health Research and Treatment
The field of oral health is continually evolving, with new research and technological advancements improving our understanding and treatment of various oral conditions, including dark spots inside the cheek. Some recent developments include:
- Improved imaging techniques for early detection of oral abnormalities
- Advanced genetic testing to identify hereditary conditions affecting oral health
- Novel treatments for oral melanoma, including immunotherapy and targeted therapies
- Enhanced understanding of the oral microbiome and its role in oral health
What promising new treatments are on the horizon for managing dark spots inside the cheek? While research is ongoing, some promising areas include the development of targeted topical treatments for certain types of oral pigmentation and the use of laser therapy for removing benign dark spots. However, it’s important to note that these treatments are still in various stages of research and may not be widely available or suitable for all types of dark spots.
The Role of Dental Professionals in Managing Oral Dark Spots
Dental professionals play a crucial role in identifying, diagnosing, and managing dark spots inside the cheek. Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining oral health and catching any potential issues early. During these visits, dentists can:
- Perform thorough oral examinations to detect any abnormalities
- Provide expert advice on oral hygiene practices
- Offer guidance on lifestyle factors that may impact oral health
- Refer patients to specialists if further investigation is needed
How often should one visit a dentist for oral health check-ups? The American Dental Association recommends regular dental visits, with the frequency determined by individual oral health needs. For most people, this means visiting a dentist every six months. However, those with certain risk factors or existing oral health conditions may need more frequent check-ups.
Lifestyle Factors and Their Impact on Oral Health
Various lifestyle factors can significantly influence oral health and potentially contribute to the development of dark spots inside the cheek. Understanding these factors can help individuals make informed choices to maintain optimal oral health:
- Diet: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports overall oral health.
- Hydration: Adequate water intake helps maintain saliva production, which is crucial for oral health.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can lead to various oral health issues, including discoloration.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol use can contribute to oral health problems and increase cancer risk.
- Oral hygiene practices: Regular brushing, flossing, and use of mouthwash help prevent many oral health issues.
Can certain foods or beverages contribute to the formation of dark spots inside the cheek? While most foods and beverages don’t directly cause dark spots, some can contribute to overall oral health issues. For instance, frequent consumption of highly pigmented foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, or red wine) can lead to general discoloration of oral tissues. However, this type of staining is typically superficial and different from the dark spots associated with medical conditions.
The Connection Between Systemic Health and Oral Dark Spots
The health of our mouth is intrinsically linked to our overall well-being. Sometimes, dark spots inside the cheek can be indicative of systemic health issues. Understanding this connection is crucial for comprehensive health management:
- Hormonal imbalances, as seen in Addison’s disease, can manifest as oral discoloration.
- Certain medications can cause pigmentation changes in the mouth as a side effect.
- Nutritional deficiencies may sometimes lead to changes in oral tissue appearance.
- Autoimmune conditions can occasionally present with oral symptoms, including discoloration.
How does overall health impact the likelihood of developing dark spots inside the cheek? While many dark spots are localized oral issues, maintaining good overall health can reduce the risk of developing certain types of oral discoloration. A strong immune system, balanced hormones, and good nutrition all contribute to healthy oral tissues. Conversely, chronic health conditions or systemic diseases can sometimes manifest with oral symptoms, including dark spots.
Cultural and Ethnic Variations in Oral Pigmentation
It’s important to recognize that natural variations in oral pigmentation exist across different ethnicities and cultures. What might be considered a “dark spot” in one individual could be a normal pigmentation variation in another. Understanding these differences is crucial for accurate diagnosis and to avoid unnecessary concern:
- Racial pigmentation: Many individuals with darker skin tones naturally have more pigmented oral tissues.
- Ethnic variations: Certain ethnic groups may be more prone to specific types of oral pigmentation.
- Cultural practices: Some cultural practices, like betel nut chewing in parts of Asia, can lead to oral discoloration.
How do healthcare providers account for ethnic variations when assessing dark spots inside the cheek? Competent healthcare providers consider a patient’s ethnic background when evaluating oral pigmentation. They are trained to distinguish between normal variations and potentially concerning changes. This cultural competence is crucial in providing accurate diagnoses and avoiding unnecessary treatments or anxiety.
The Future of Oral Health: Emerging Technologies and Treatments
As we look to the future, exciting advancements in oral health technologies and treatments are on the horizon. These innovations promise to revolutionize how we detect, diagnose, and treat various oral conditions, including dark spots inside the cheek:
- AI-powered diagnostic tools for early detection of oral abnormalities
- Personalized treatment plans based on genetic profiling
- Advanced imaging techniques for non-invasive oral examinations
- Nanotechnology applications in oral health treatments
- Stem cell therapies for regenerating damaged oral tissues
What role will artificial intelligence play in the future of oral health diagnostics? Artificial intelligence is poised to play a significant role in oral health diagnostics. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data, including images and patient histories, to detect subtle changes or patterns that might indicate the presence of oral health issues. This technology could lead to earlier detection of conditions like oral cancer, potentially improving treatment outcomes. However, it’s important to note that AI will likely complement, rather than replace, the expertise of dental professionals.
Pictures, causes, treatment, and when to seek help
Black spots inside the cheek can have several causes, such as blisters or hyperpigmentation. In rare cases, they may indicate something more serious, such as mouth cancer.
Many harmless conditions can cause a black spot to develop inside the cheek. Often, there will be no other symptoms, and it will improve without treatment.
Rarely, however, a black spot inside the cheek may be a symptom of oral melanoma. This is a rare type of cancer.
The American Cancer Society estimate that just over 54,000 people will develop mouth or throat cancer in 2021. Melanoma usually accounts for 0.5% of all oral cancers.
This article will examine some potential causes of a black spot inside the cheek. It will also look at some treatment options and when a person should contact their doctor.
Blisters are raised bubbles on the skin with fluid inside. They can occur anywhere on the body, including in the mouth.
Blood blisters contain blood and appear dark red or purple.
They may develop in the mouth due to accidentally biting the cheek or as a result of an allergic reaction.
Learn more about blood blisters in the mouth here.
Treatment
Blood blisters are not typically harmful, and they will often heal without treatment.
Sometimes, however, they may cause pain or discomfort. In these cases, a person can use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication.
Amalgam tattoos occur when metal fillings leak, causing dark marks to appear inside the mouth.
These marks can appear when a dentist places or removes a filling and tiny metal fragments fall between the teeth.
They most commonly appear on the gum or cheek, near the amalgam filling. However, they can appear anywhere in the mouth.
Treatment
Amalgam tattoos do not cause any symptoms or require any form of treatment.
Smoking can cause smoker’s melanosis. This is a condition wherein brown or black pigmentation develops inside the mouth and throat.
Treatment
This condition is not harmful, and it does not require treatment.
However, the tobacco smoke that causes these spots is harmful to various areas of the body. For example, smoking can cause gum disease, tooth loss, and mouth cancer, as well as several other conditions.
Melanoma is a cancer of the pigment-making cells, or melanocytes, that typically affects the skin. However, these cancers can also occur on mucosal membranes, such as in the mouth.
Oral melanoma usually appears as a raised area that has a black, brown, or dark blue appearance. These marks can be asymmetric with an irregular border.
There may also be swelling, if inflammation is present.
One 2020 article notes that oral melanoma is not related to sun exposure. Healthcare professionals are unsure about what the risk factors may be, but they may include:
- dental irritation
- cigarette smoking
- alcohol consumption
Treatment
The main treatment option for oral melanoma is surgery.
A healthcare professional may also recommend radiation therapy.
Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands, which are the glands on the top of the kidneys, do not make enough of certain hormones. These include cortisol and aldosterone.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases note that Addison’s disease can cause the development of darker areas on the skin and inside the mouth.
Other symptoms can include:
- chronic fatigue
- muscle weakness
- abdominal pain
- weight loss
- appetite loss
Treatment
Treatment for Addison’s disease will include hormone replacement medications. People can take a corticosteroid, such as hydrocortisone, to replace missing cortisol. They will take an oral tablet two or three times per day.
To replace aldosterone, a person can take fludrocortisone to help balance the amount of fluid and sodium in the body.
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare genetic condition that causes dark freckles to appear around the face and inside the mouth.
It may also cause mushroom-shaped tissue growths called polyps to develop throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome can also cause other symptoms, including:
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- rectal bleeding
- digestive issues
Treatment
There is currently no cure for Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. However, treatments may involve surgically removing any polyps that are causing gastrointestinal problems.
A doctor or dentist will perform a physical examination of the black spots to determine the cause. Also, they will likely ask the person whether or not the spots are painful or have any accompanying symptoms.
A doctor may also check a person’s medical history for any signs of genetic conditions, such as Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, that could be the cause. They might also review the person’s dental records for the presence of metal fillings.
Depending on their assessment, a doctor may also order additional tests to make a firm diagnosis.
For example, they might require a blood test or skin sample for further analysis.
Many causes of black spots inside the cheek, such as amalgam tattoos, are harmless.
Although no medical treatment is necessary for some causes of a black spot in the cheek, a person should contact a doctor about any sore or spot that lasts for longer than 3 weeks.
If the black areas develop sores or ulcers, these could be symptoms of mouth cancer. Early detection of mouth cancer is crucial for successful treatment.
There are many possible causes of black spots inside the cheek. For most people, these spots will cause no additional symptoms and will not require treatment.
Some people may require OTC treatments for causes that cause pain, such as blood blisters. Other causes, such as mouth cancer, will require medical treatment.
Although black spots inside the mouth may be harmless, it is worth contacting a doctor about persistent cases. They can help determine whether the spot is harmless or requires further care.
Pictures, causes, treatment, and when to seek help
Black spots inside the cheek can have several causes, such as blisters or hyperpigmentation. In rare cases, they may indicate something more serious, such as mouth cancer.
Many harmless conditions can cause a black spot to develop inside the cheek. Often, there will be no other symptoms, and it will improve without treatment.
Rarely, however, a black spot inside the cheek may be a symptom of oral melanoma. This is a rare type of cancer.
The American Cancer Society estimate that just over 54,000 people will develop mouth or throat cancer in 2021. Melanoma usually accounts for 0.5% of all oral cancers.
This article will examine some potential causes of a black spot inside the cheek. It will also look at some treatment options and when a person should contact their doctor.
Blisters are raised bubbles on the skin with fluid inside. They can occur anywhere on the body, including in the mouth.
Blood blisters contain blood and appear dark red or purple.
They may develop in the mouth due to accidentally biting the cheek or as a result of an allergic reaction.
Learn more about blood blisters in the mouth here.
Treatment
Blood blisters are not typically harmful, and they will often heal without treatment.
Sometimes, however, they may cause pain or discomfort. In these cases, a person can use over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief medication.
Amalgam tattoos occur when metal fillings leak, causing dark marks to appear inside the mouth.
These marks can appear when a dentist places or removes a filling and tiny metal fragments fall between the teeth.
They most commonly appear on the gum or cheek, near the amalgam filling. However, they can appear anywhere in the mouth.
Treatment
Amalgam tattoos do not cause any symptoms or require any form of treatment.
Smoking can cause smoker’s melanosis. This is a condition wherein brown or black pigmentation develops inside the mouth and throat.
Treatment
This condition is not harmful, and it does not require treatment.
However, the tobacco smoke that causes these spots is harmful to various areas of the body. For example, smoking can cause gum disease, tooth loss, and mouth cancer, as well as several other conditions.
Melanoma is a cancer of the pigment-making cells, or melanocytes, that typically affects the skin. However, these cancers can also occur on mucosal membranes, such as in the mouth.
Oral melanoma usually appears as a raised area that has a black, brown, or dark blue appearance. These marks can be asymmetric with an irregular border.
There may also be swelling, if inflammation is present.
One 2020 article notes that oral melanoma is not related to sun exposure. Healthcare professionals are unsure about what the risk factors may be, but they may include:
- dental irritation
- cigarette smoking
- alcohol consumption
Treatment
The main treatment option for oral melanoma is surgery.
A healthcare professional may also recommend radiation therapy.
Addison’s disease is an endocrine disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands, which are the glands on the top of the kidneys, do not make enough of certain hormones. These include cortisol and aldosterone.
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases note that Addison’s disease can cause the development of darker areas on the skin and inside the mouth.
Other symptoms can include:
- chronic fatigue
- muscle weakness
- abdominal pain
- weight loss
- appetite loss
Treatment
Treatment for Addison’s disease will include hormone replacement medications. People can take a corticosteroid, such as hydrocortisone, to replace missing cortisol. They will take an oral tablet two or three times per day.
To replace aldosterone, a person can take fludrocortisone to help balance the amount of fluid and sodium in the body.
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a rare genetic condition that causes dark freckles to appear around the face and inside the mouth.
It may also cause mushroom-shaped tissue growths called polyps to develop throughout the gastrointestinal tract.
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome can also cause other symptoms, including:
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach pain
- rectal bleeding
- digestive issues
Treatment
There is currently no cure for Peutz-Jeghers syndrome. However, treatments may involve surgically removing any polyps that are causing gastrointestinal problems.
A doctor or dentist will perform a physical examination of the black spots to determine the cause. Also, they will likely ask the person whether or not the spots are painful or have any accompanying symptoms.
A doctor may also check a person’s medical history for any signs of genetic conditions, such as Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, that could be the cause. They might also review the person’s dental records for the presence of metal fillings.
Depending on their assessment, a doctor may also order additional tests to make a firm diagnosis.
For example, they might require a blood test or skin sample for further analysis.
Many causes of black spots inside the cheek, such as amalgam tattoos, are harmless.
Although no medical treatment is necessary for some causes of a black spot in the cheek, a person should contact a doctor about any sore or spot that lasts for longer than 3 weeks.
If the black areas develop sores or ulcers, these could be symptoms of mouth cancer. Early detection of mouth cancer is crucial for successful treatment.
There are many possible causes of black spots inside the cheek. For most people, these spots will cause no additional symptoms and will not require treatment.
Some people may require OTC treatments for causes that cause pain, such as blood blisters. Other causes, such as mouth cancer, will require medical treatment.
Although black spots inside the mouth may be harmless, it is worth contacting a doctor about persistent cases. They can help determine whether the spot is harmless or requires further care.
Possible causes of a black spot on the cheek – Drink-Drink
DrinkDrinkAdmin
Contents
- Causes of a black spot on the cheek
- Oral nevi
90 009 Blood blister
- Melanotic spots
- Leaking dental filling
- Smoker’s melanosis
- Oral cancer
- Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
- Addison’s disease
Finding a black spot or dot on the inside of the cheek can be alarming, but not necessarily a sign of something serious.
Discoloration of the mouth can be caused by a variety of harmless conditions such as moles, hyperpigmentation, and leaking dental fillings.
In incredibly rare cases, a black spot can be a sign of a type of cancer called oral melanoma. Oral melanoma accounts for about 1.
6 percent of head or neck cancers and less than 1 percent of all melanomas, according to The Oral Cancer Foundation.
Keep reading to find out what can cause a black spot on the inside of your cheek and when you should see your doctor.
Causes of Black Spot on Cheek
The following conditions can cause black spot, a small round mark on the inside of the cheek.
Oral nevi
Oral nevi are small brown, bluish-gray or almost black dots that may appear in the mouth. Nevuses is the medical term for moles (nevi in the singular).
Oral nevi usually slightly elevated. They are more common on the palate or the inside of the lip, but can also form on the cheeks. They usually do not cause any symptoms.
Oral nevus usually does not require treatment and there are no reports of oral nevus becoming cancerous. However, your doctor or dentist may still recommend a biopsy to make sure it’s really a nevus and not melanoma.
Blood blister
Blood blister are fluid sacs that fill with blood.
They can range in color from purple to deep red. They usually form when the skin is pinched in the mouth.
Blood blisters are often large enough to be felt with the tongue. They most often form on the soft parts of the mouth, such as the cheeks or inner lips. They are usually painful when touched or when eating spicy food.
Most blood blisters do not last long and do not require treatment if left alone. But if the blood blister doesn’t go away for more than 2 weeks or becomes a recurring problem, it’s a good idea to see a doctor.
Melanotic spots
Oral melanotic patches are areas of hyperpigmentation that average about a quarter of an inch in diameter. They can be as small as 0.04 inches. These spots are usually flat and have a well-defined border.
Melanotic macules in the mouth are not cancerous, but a doctor may recommend a biopsy to rule out melanoma.
Causes of a dark spot on the cheek
The following are possible causes of dark spots on the inside of the cheek.
The spots may vary in size, but they are larger than the dot.
Leaking dental filling
Amalgam is a material composed of mercury, tin, zinc, silver and copper. It has been used for over 150 years for filling teeth.
Amalgam tattoos are leaks from these dental fillings. They are relatively common and usually appear dark blue, gray, or black. Most often they are located next to the seal.
Amalgam tattoos do not cause any symptoms and do not require treatment. They are irreversible unless removed with laser surgery.
smoker’s melanosis
Smoking can leave spots on the cheeks and gums called smoker’s melanosis. About 22 percent of people who smoke have this staining.
These patches do not cause symptoms and do not require treatment. However, your doctor will likely recommend a biopsy to rule out other conditions. Stains can be removed with laser treatment or electrosurgery.
Oral cancer
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that affects pigmented cells called melanocytes.
Melanoma most often occurs on areas of the skin that are frequently exposed to sunlight, but it can also form in the mouth and nose. In extremely rare cases, a dark spot on the cheek can be a sign of oral melanoma.
In the early stages, oral melanoma often has minimal symptoms. It usually appears as a dark brown to blue-black patch. It may also be unpigmented or white. In advanced stages, the spot may be accompanied by pain, ulcers, and bleeding.
The median age at which oral melanoma is diagnosed is 56 years. twice as common in men as in women.
Oral melanoma treatment may include:
- surgery
- immunotherapy
- radiation
- drug therapy
Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
9 0002 Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is a condition that causes benign growths called polyps in the intestines and stomach.
Children who develop this condition also usually develop dark spots on the lips, in the mouth, near the eyes and nose, and around the anus.
The spots usually disappear with age.
People with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome also often develop complications such as pain, bleeding, or bowel obstruction.
There is currently no cure for Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, but surgery can remove polyps in the digestive tract.
Addison’s disease
Addison’s disease, or adrenal insufficiency, is a deficiency in the hormones your adrenal glands produce. One symptom of Addison’s disease is hyperpigmented patches on the skin in the mouth.
Other symptoms include:
- extreme fatigue
- weight loss
- craving for salt
- low blood sugar
- hyperpigmentation
You may be taking medication to replace hormones your adrenal glands cannot produce on their own. by oneself.
When to see a doctor
Although the chance of developing oral melanoma is very low, it is recommended that you see a doctor any time you notice an abnormal color spot or dot in your mouth.
It is especially important to have an on-site examination if you are over 55 years of age. Older people have a higher risk of developing oral cancer.
Diagnosing the cause
Your doctor may use the following tests to confirm the diagnosis of a dark spot on the cheek:
- Physical examination. Your doctor may identify a stain during a physical exam simply by how it looks.
- Biopsy. During a biopsy, the doctor cuts off a small piece of the stain and sends it to a laboratory for analysis.
- Blood test. Your doctor may order a blood test that measures potassium, cortisol, and ACTH levels if he suspects Addison’s disease.
Conclusion
Finding a dark spot or dot in the mouth is unlikely to be a sign of cancer. However, it is still recommended to show it to your doctor or dentist. If it does turn out to be cancer, early diagnosis and treatment can improve your prognosis.
Zdorovye
Stomatitis in children – symptoms, causes, signs and methods of treatment of children’s stomatitis in the “SM-Clinic” for children and adolescents
Signs of stomatitis in a child depend on the form of pathology and the cause of the disease.
Herpetic or viral stomatitis is caused by the introduction of the herpes simplex virus type 1, and can have two forms in children: acute primary and secondary recurrent. In newborns and breastfed infants, it is rare due to the presence in the body of a large number of antibodies received from the mother, or it occurs in a mild form almost imperceptibly. At an older age, the pathology manifests itself acutely, with severe symptoms of intoxication. The most common ways of infection: household items, toys, close contact with carriers, airborne.
Symptoms of herpetic stomatitis in children are:
- ulceration on the mucosa simultaneously in several places of approximately the same type and size;
- fever, often high and before the first rash appears;
- undulating reappearance of painful ulcers, each time accompanied by a rise in temperature;
- gum swelling, redness;
- the appearance of an unpleasant, putrid odor from the mouth.
Candidal stomatitis is better known as “children’s thrush”. Most often this form affects children under 3 years of age. It is fungal in nature, caused by the yeast-like fungus Candida. This type of stomatitis is preceded by a burning sensation in the mouth, excessive dryness of the affected mucosa, an unpleasant taste and smell. The child behaves restlessly, refuses to eat; observed sleep and eating disorders. Soon, the inner side of the cheeks, tongue, gums and even lips are covered with small whitish dots, which, merging and forming a dense white coating of curdled consistency, multiply rapidly. In advanced cases, plaque acquires a dirty gray color. It is almost impossible to remove it, under it a swollen, inflamed surface is found, which, at the slightest physical impact, begins to bleed.
Angular stomatitis is sometimes considered a type of candidal stomatitis, since it can be caused by the same Candida fungi or streptococci. In this case, the corners of the lips are affected, which makes it difficult for the child to open his mouth, eat, and even talk.
It is more common in children of school age. When affected by streptococci, a purulent crust forms on the surface of the ulcers, which, when removed, immediately grows again. The disease is recurrent in nature and is often popularly referred to as “zayed”.
Aphthous stomatitis is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- fever;
- loss of appetite;
- burning and itching in the mouth;
- the appearance on the inner surface of the cheeks, gums, tongue and palate of painful white sores with a red border and a cloudy film on top – aphthae, which have clear and even edges characteristic of this type of disease.
Often this form of pathology occurs against the background of severe weakness, drowsiness of the baby. In some children, aphthous stomatitis is rare, in others it is observed up to 2 or more times a year.
Bacterial stomatitis is one of the “dirty hands” diseases. The cause of development is a bacterial infection that has entered the mouth.
The introduction occurs especially quickly when the integrity of the mucosa is violated: with a wound in the mouth, a bitten inner surface of the cheeks or lips, a newly erupted tooth, etc. The same form of the disease includes infections obtained during passage through the birth canal, especially in the case of a mother with venereal diseases, scarlet fever, etc.
External symptoms directly depend on the type of bacteria, and its manifestation depends on the state of the child’s immune system. Often manifested by inflammation of the gums or the appearance of a dirty gray film on them. The child experiences pain while eating, especially sharp when eating spicy and pickled foods, citrus fruits, etc. The mucous membrane of the mouth is edematous and acquires a darker shade, burns and itches. Then bubbles appear on it, which quickly ulcerate or crack, begin to bleed. The process is very painful and is accompanied by a putrid specific smell from the mouth. Against this background, the temperature often rises to high values, the head and joints hurt, symptoms of intoxication of the body may be present.