WANDA C. GONSALVES, M.D., ANGELA C. CHI, D.M.D., and BRAD W. NEVILLE, D.D.S.

Common superficial oral mucosal lesions include candidiasis, recurrent herpes labialis, recurrent aphthous stomatitis, and erythema migrans. Recognition and diagnosis require a thorough history and oral examination; knowledge of clinical characteristics such as size, location, surface morphology, color, pain, and duration is helpful.

WANDA C. GONSALVES, M.D., ANGELA C. CHI, D.M.D., and BRAD W. NEVILLE, D.D.S.

Neoplastic or cancerous oral lesions may appear as white or erythematous patches, ulcerated lesions, or masses. Differentiating benign from worrisome lesions and providing appropriate counseling about risk factors is central to achieving national oral health goals.

MADELINE SIMASEK, M.D., and DAVID A. BLANDINO, M.D.

Treatment of the common cold focuses on symptom relief. The most commonly used treatments include over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants, and expectorants. These treatments are available alone or in combination; however, their effectiveness varies and the adverse effects might outweigh the benefits.

Patient information: "The Common Cold: What You Should Know," p. 522

Editorial: "Guidelines for Treating Adults with Acute Cough," p. 476

LUCINDA M. BUYS, PHARM.D., B.C.P.S.

Atopic dermatitis, characterized by periods of remission and flare-ups, is most common in children. Aggressive use of emollient creams is important to prevent and soothe irritated skin, and topical corticosteroids are first-line treatments for flare-ups.

Patient information: "Atopic Dermatitis: What You Should Know," p. 530