My husband's dentist discovered a small leukoplakia and sent him to an oral surgeon for a biopsy; the results showed moderate dysplasia. He was referred to an ENT and saw the doctor the day after the biopsy results were returned.

According to my husband, the ENT appeared less concerned about it than the oral surgeon was. The ENT is scheduling surgery to remove it four to six weeks from now.

The ENT also said something along the lines of: "I'm not familiar with the lab that did the pathology results and can't really say how serious it might be until I remove it and send it to the lab we usually work with." (That's a paraphrase, not his exact language.) Do pathology reports really vary that much? Should my husband be pushing for surgery sooner?

The oral surgeon's office has been using that particular lab for less than a year, if that makes any difference. I do not know how many patients the oral surgeon refers to the ENT's office.

I guess my real question is: Should he seek another opinion? My gut says yes, but I tend toward over-concern.

If so, do any of you all have any recommendations in the Washington/Baltimore area? We are in northern Virginia; DC is fine, and Baltimore is an easy drive (my husband works up in that direction).

Thanks for your help and advice. I am grateful to know you all are here.