Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What condition is indicated by a lip presenting with a bluish lump?

1. Mucositis

2. Mucocele

3. Cystic fibrosis

4. Aphthous ulcer

The correct answer is: Mucocele

A bluish lump on the lip is most indicative of a mucocele. A mucocele is a benign cyst that forms when mucous glands become obstructed or when a duct is damaged, causing the accumulation of saliva or mucous. This accumulation results in a distended swelling that can appear bluish or translucent due to the fluid content beneath the thin epithelial surface. The location on the lip aligns with typical presentations of mucoceles, often seen in the lower lip. This condition is common among individuals who may frequently chew or bite their lips, which can lead to trauma of the salivary glands. Treatment typically involves removal of the mucocele and any underlying obstruction if necessary. Other conditions listed, such as mucositis, cystic fibrosis, and aphthous ulcers, do not characteristically present as a bluish lump on the lip. Mucositis refers to inflammation of the mucous membranes, usually resulting in ulcers rather than a localized swelling. Cystic fibrosis is a systemic genetic disorder that may lead to various complications, but would not specifically cause a bluish lump on the lip. Aphthous ulcers are painful, shallow ulcers that do not typically present with a lump and are more likely to appear as white