Dental providers play a pivotal role in the identification, diagnosis, and management of oral lesions, particularly in the early detection of precancerous and cancerous changes. Overlooking or underestimating pertinent mucosal changes may lead to delayed diagnosis and management and therefore, increased patient morbidity and mortality. This course will emphasize the characteristic features of common ulcerative conditions of the oral mucosa and those features worrisome for dysplasia and oral cancer. Indications for biopsy, appropriate biopsy site selection, and an update on management strategies will also be discussed.
Learning Objectives:
Define a systematic approach to assessing oral lesions
Understand key distinguishing features amongst red and white lesions
Recognize features that are suspicious for oral pre-cancer and cancer
Identify common causes of oral ulcerations
Recognize indications for biopsy and appropriate biopsy site selection
Speaker Bio:
Vikki Noonan, DMD, DMSc, is an associate professor and director of the clinical oral pathology practice in the department of oral and maxillofacial surgery, Division of Oral Pathology, at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine.