Oral Pathology

Your physician or dentist may notice suspicious area in your mouth either from an exam or x-ray and refer you to have an evaluation.  Suspicious ulcers, lumps and bumps on the cheek, gums or tongue should be evaluated. Most times a biopsy is required which will confirm the diagnosis and lead to a treatment plan.  This is usually accomplished with local anesthesia depending on the location of the lesion. Other options are nitrous oxide, intravenous or general anesthesia. In most cases sutures are placed which will dissolve in a week.  The specimen is then sent to a pathologist for a definitive diagnosis. A follow up appointment is made in a week to review the biopsy report and discuss further treatment.

Pathology involving the jaw bone may require a CAT scan or other studies to better evaluate the area prior to biopsy.

Dr. Philip J. Pandolfi D. M. D. • 2105 Evelyn Byrd Avenue • Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Phone: 540-433-1751 • Fax: 540-433-1756