Diagnostic dilemma of an ulcer in a child.

UNLABELLED

Careful history-taking and examination are important in diagnosing self-inflicted injuries, which are often very difficult to diagnose and manage. We describe a case of a misdiagnosed traumatic ulcer in a 9-year-old boy which meant that he went through months of pain and discomfort, missed school, was admitted to hospital and had a series of unnecessary investigations.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This case highlights the importance of dental referral, careful history and examination in managing unusual oral ulceration.