1008H
Fig. 15.5 Erythema multiforme in a
teenager.15.2.4 White lesions
Trauma of either a chemical or physical nature, for example, burns and occlusal
trauma, can cause white patches intraorally.
WHITE SPONGY NAEVUS
The white spongy naevus (also known as the oral epithelial naevus) is a rough folded
lesion that can affect any part of the oral mucosa. It often appears in infancy. It is
benign.
LEUCOEDEMA
This is a folded, white translucent appearance found in children of races who exhibit
pigmentation of the oral mucosa. It is considered a variation of normal.
CANDIDIASIS
The white patches of acute fungal candidiasis mentioned above are readily removed,
in contrast to the white lesions discussed here.
GEOGRAPHIC TONGUE
This condition may be seen in children. It is normally symptomless, although some
patients complain of discomfort with spicy foods. Areas of the tongue appear shiny
and red due to loss of filiform papillae (1009HFig. 15.6). These red patches are surrounded
by white margins. These areas disappear before reappearing in other regions of the
tongue. The condition is benign and requires no treatment apart from reassurance to
the child and parent.
1010H
Fig. 15.6 Geographic tongue. (By kind
permission of Wolfe Publishing.)