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Intraoral Hodgkin's disease.
F R Mathews1, S S Appleton, D J Wear
1School of Dentistry, Loma Linda University, CA 92350.
Summary
This case study highlights an intraoral lesion in an elderly patient. Delayed treatment due to patient factors and poor health led to disease progression and a fatal outcome.
Area of Science:
- Oral pathology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- This report details a rare intraoral lesion in an 85-year-old female.
- The lesion was located on the mandibular alveolar crest in an edentulous area.
Observation:
- Diagnosis was confirmed via biopsy.
- Gallium and CT scans proved effective for noninvasive disease staging.
- Treatment initiation was postponed due to patient preference, comorbidities, and intolerance to therapies.
Findings:
- Delayed treatment significantly contributed to disease progression.
- The patient's advanced age and poor health status complicated management.
- The intraoral lesion ultimately proved fatal.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical importance of timely diagnosis and treatment for intraoral lesions.
- Patient autonomy must be carefully balanced with medical necessity in oncologic care.
- Understanding factors influencing treatment adherence is crucial for improving patient outcomes in oral cancer.