Case for diagnosis. Riga-Fede disease

Area of Science:

• Oral Medicine
• Neurology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Riga-Fede disease is a rare, benign oral mucosal disorder.
• It is characterized by reactive ulceration secondary to repetitive dental trauma.
• The condition is primarily described in children, often with co-occurring neurologic disorders, and is exceptionally rare in adults.

Observation:

• This report details a unique case of a large tongue ulcer in an adult patient.
• The ulcer presented with features mimicking squamous cell carcinoma.
• The patient had a history of hemiparesis, a neurologic condition affecting one side of the body.

Findings:

• The oral ulceration in the adult patient resolved completely following neurologic recovery.
• This suggests a potential link between the patient's hemiparesis and the development of the Riga-Fede lesion.
• The case underscores that Riga-Fede disease can manifest in adults, even with significant oral lesions.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider Riga-Fede disease in the differential diagnosis of unexplained oral mucosal ulcerations, particularly in patients with neurologic deficits.
• Recognizing this benign condition can prevent unnecessary invasive procedures and misdiagnosis.
• Further investigation into the relationship between neurologic disorders and oral trauma-induced lesions may be warranted.