General Investigations

Question 0

What are examples of lesions which have neoplastic or premalignant features or are enlarging?

Answer 0

• erythroplakia
• leukoplakia
• lichen planus
• focal pigmented lesions
• lumps

Question 1

What are the indications for biopsy?

Answer 1

• lesions which have neoplastic or premalignant features or are enlarging
• persistent lesions that are of uncertain aetiology
• persistent lesions that are failing to respond to treatment
• confirmation of the clinical diagnosis is required
• lesions that are causing the patient extreme concern

Question 2

Persistent lesions of uncertain aetiology?

Answer 2

Soft or hard tissue

Question 3

Persistent lesions failing to respond to treatment?

Answer 3

Ulcers or lesions sub as some radiolucent or radio-opaque bone lesions

Question 4

Persistent focal lesions involving the gingival/periodontium?

Answer 4

Non-healing extraction sockets

Question 5

What is an excisional biopsy?

Answer 5

Removal of the complete lesions. Preferred for small, isolated and probably benign lesions.

Question 6

What is sialography?

Answer 6

It involves injection of radio-opaque contrast media into a salivary duct followed by oblique lateral and postero-anterior (PA) radiographs. Can help to:

• assess patients with xerostomia
• assess patients with salivary swelling
• detect ducal obstruction
• detect the rare cases of salivary aplasia