LFA DC/MD/VA Lupus Tip of the Week - Lupus Oral Manifestations or Oral Cancer?

Mouth ulcers and sores located on the inner cheeks and lip commonly affect lupus patients. Most often, these manifestations resemble a red plaque area with a white border. Whether asymptomatic or irritating, ulcers and sores are treatable. Candidiasis, another common lupus oral feature, is also known as "thrush," a white fungal infection associated with medications, dry mouth, or poor oral hygiene.

In contrast, oral cancer most often occurs on the tissues of the lip or the tongue, but also found on the inner cheeks, or roof and floor of the mouth. Cancer sores start as a white plaque, known as leukoplakia, or a mouth ulcer. Other cancerous symptoms include abnormal taste, difficulty swallowing, and tongue problems.

Having lupus is NOT a risk factor for oral cancer. However, it is imperative not to mistake a common oral sore for an oral cancer sore. When you have a mouth sore or lesion due to lupus or other factors, they usually disappear within two weeks. Oral cancer does not. Call for an appointment with your dentist or healthcare provider if you have a lesion or sore of the mouth that does not go away within one month.