Suggest Treatment For White Modular Spot On The Tongue

Posted on Wed, 29 Apr 2015

Question: I have a white nodular looking spot on my tongue that has been there for two weeks and developed after having dental work. My dentist has referred me to a ENT for another look but I am very worried it is oral cancer. I am a 52 y/o healthy, fit female with no hx of smoking. The patch looks like enlarged taste buds, and does not hurt. I also notice the roof of my mouth is very itchy. Do you think this could be cancer?

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
need some details to guide you better

Detailed Answer:
Hello

My name is Dr Muhammad Ali Rauf & i will look into your problem.

I have gone through your query and would try to help you in the best possible way. There could be a number of causes for your complaint. I would be in a better position to guide you anything if you answer following questions please:

1. Please upload a clear image of the patch if possible.
2. is there any family history of cancer? if yes then what type?
3. do you chew tobacco?
4. are you on any medication?
5. have you observed foul smell from mouth?
6. any history of fever?
7. do you have diabetes, hypertension or any other illness?
8. any other symptom that you would like to share?

I will be looking forward for the answers to conclude the discussion in the best interest of yours.
Thank You

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (17 minutes later)

Thank you!
I uploaded the image. No family hx of cancer, never chewed tobacco, I am on a XXXXXXX Air inhaler for exercise induced asthma, no foul odor in mouth, no fever hx, no diabetes or hypertension or other illness and no other noted symptoms.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Ali Rauf (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Unlikely to be cancer; most likely oral thrush

Detailed Answer:
hello

thank you for the answers and image. Your symptom is highly unlikely to be cancer. It most probably is Oral Thrush(fungal infection). A 10-14 days treatment of antifungal drugs will treat it completely. I would suggest you to once visit your treating doctor because antifungals are not OTC medications and you need a prescription. Following general measures will also help in smooth recovery:

- Take very good care of oral hygiene.
- Dissolve 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) of salt in 1 cup (237 milliliters) of warm water. Swish the rinse and then spit it out, but don't swallow.
- Avoid sugar related products till you become healthy again.
- cetirizine one at night for 5 days will reduce itching.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help if not then don't forget to close the discussion and rate it.
Wishing you good health !!

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar