A 52-year-old man presents with an ulcer in the floor of his mouth of 8 weeks' duration. The lesion measures 1 * 2 cm, is indurated, and is slightly uncomfortable for the patient. What should the clinician do at this point in time?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Given the characteristics of the lesion (ulcer in the floor of the mouth, duration of 8 weeks, induration, and discomfort), a biopsy is warranted to rule out malignancy and other serious conditions. Observing, treating with prednisone or nystatin, or conducting a direct immunofluorescence test without a biopsy would not be appropriate initial steps given the potential seriousness of the findings.

A 52-Year-Old Man Presents with an Ulcer in the Floor