Oral Pathology: Important Terminologies of Lesions

Introduction

• Understanding lesion classification is crucial before delving into specific lesions, like dentigerous cysts.
• Knowledge of classifications aids in clarity for exams like AFK, INBDE, BDS, or DDS.

Types of Lesions

1. Macule

• Characteristics: Non-raised, flat, pigmented.
• Size: Less than 1 cm in diameter.
• Example: Nevus.

2. Patch

• Characteristics: Non-raised, flat, pigmented, larger than macule.
• Size: More than 1 cm in diameter.
• Example: Echymosis (bleeding under tissue).

3. Erosion

• Characteristics: Denuded epithelium above the basal layer.
• Identification: Not extending into connective tissue.

4. Ulcer

• Characteristics: Break in epithelium extending into the basal layer and connective tissue.

5. Fissure

• Characteristics: Linear crack, often seen in heels.

6. Papule

• Characteristics: Elevated, solid lesion.
• Size: Less than 1 cm in diameter.

7. Nodule

• Characteristics: Raised, solid, deeper than papule.
• Size: More than 1 cm in diameter.

8. Plaque

• Characteristics: Raised, flat, with horizontal dimension.
• Size: More than 1 cm in diameter.

9. Vesicle

• Characteristics: Small, fluid-filled, elevated lesion.
• Size: Less than 1 cm in diameter.

10. Bulla

• Characteristics: Larger fluid-filled lesion.
• Size: Greater than 1 cm, mucocutaneous in nature.

11. Pustule

• Characteristics: Purulent fluid-filled, less than 1 cm.
• Feature: Contains pus (purulent exudate).

12. Cyst

• Characteristics: Epithelial-lined cavity, contains fluid, air, or other substances.
• Note: If not epithelial-lined, called a pseudocyst.

13. Tumor

• Characteristics: Deep, solid mass, more than 1 cm.
• Borders: Can be well (benign) or ill-defined (malignant).

Biopsies in Dentistry

• Purpose: Moves from differential diagnosis to definitive diagnosis.

Types of Biopsies

Incisional Biopsy

• Purpose: Diagnostic measure.
• Use: For large lesions or suspected malignancy.

Excisional Biopsy

• Purpose: Treatment measure.
• Use: For vascular lesions or confirmed malignancies.

Decision Making

• Suspect vs. Diagnose: Begin with incisional biopsy for suspicion.
• Example: Leukoplakia may need repeated incisional biopsies before excision.

Conclusion

• Understanding lesion classifications and biopsies is integral in oral pathology.
• Stay tuned for comprehensive lectures on biopsies and lesion diagnosis.

For any questions or clarifications, feel free to reach out through comments.