Burning mouth syndrome is a chronic disorder typically characterized by each of the following EXCEPT:
- A. Mucosal lesion.
- B. Burning pain in multiple oral sites.
- C. Pain similar in intensity to toothache pain.
- D. Persistent altered taste perception.
The correct answer is A. Mucosal lesion.
Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) primarily affects the sensations and tastes in the mouth, not the physical appearance of the oral mucosa. While some individuals with BMS might experience dryness or soreness within the mouth, there are typically no visible lesions or erosions present.
Here's why the other options are not excluded from BMS:
B. Burning pain in multiple oral sites:
This is a hallmark symptom of BMS, with the burning sensation commonly affecting the tongue, lips, palate, cheeks, and inner surfaces of the gums.
C. Pain similar in intensity to toothache pain:
BMS pain can range in intensity, and while it can be severe, it's not always comparable to the sharp, localized pain of a toothache.
D. Persistent altered taste perception:
Altered taste, often described as metallic or bitter, is another common symptom of BMS. It can be persistent and significantly impact a person's enjoyment of food and drink.
Therefore, the absence of mucosal lesions is the only option not characteristic of burning mouth syndrome.
