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Geographic tongue
Patches on the tongue; Tongue - patchy; Benign migratory glossitis; Glossitis - benign migratory
Geographic tongue is irregular patches on the surface of the tongue. This gives it a map-like appearance.
Causes
The exact cause of geographic tongue is unknown. It may be caused by a lack of vitamin B. It also may be due to irritation from hot or spicy foods, or alcohol. The condition appears to be less common in smokers.
The change in pattern on the surface of the tongue occurs when there is a loss of the tiny, finger-like projections, called papillae, on the tongue. These areas look flat as a result. The appearance of the tongue may change very quickly. The flat-looking areas may remain for more than a month.
Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Map-like appearance to the surface of the tongue
- Patches that move from day to day
- Smooth, red patches and sores (lesions) on the tongue
- Soreness and burning pain (in some cases)
Exams and Tests
Your health care provider will diagnose this condition by looking at your tongue. Most of the time, tests are not needed.
Treatment
No treatment is needed. Antihistamine gel or steroid mouth rinses may help ease discomfort.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Geographic tongue is a harmless condition. It may be uncomfortable and last for a long time.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if the symptoms last longer than 10 days. Seek immediate medical help if:
- You have breathing problems.
- Your tongue is severely swollen.
- You have problems speaking, chewing, or swallowing
Prevention
Avoid irritating your tongue with hot or spicy food or alcohol if you are prone to this condition.
References
Mirowski GW, Mark LA. Oral disease and oral-cutaneous manifestations of gastrointestinal and liver disease. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease . 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2010:chap 22.
Reamy BV, Derby R, Bunt CW. Common tongue conditions in primary care. Am Fam Physician . 2010;81(5):627-34. PMID: 20187599 www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20187599 .
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Tongue - illustration
The tongue is mainly composed of muscles. It is covered with a mucous membrane. Small nodules of tissue, called papillae, cover the upper surface of the tongue. Between the papillae are the taste buds, which provide the sense of taste. In addition to taste, the tongue functions in moving food to aid chewing and swallowing, and it is important in speech.
Tongue
illustration
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Tongue - illustration
The tongue is mainly composed of muscles. It is covered with a mucous membrane. Small nodules of tissue, called papillae, cover the upper surface of the tongue. Between the papillae are the taste buds, which provide the sense of taste. In addition to taste, the tongue functions in moving food to aid chewing and swallowing, and it is important in speech.
Tongue
illustration
Review Date: 2/13/2015
Reviewed By: Sumana Jothi MD, otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, airway, voice, and swallowing disorders, clinical instructor UCSF Otolaryngology, NCHCS VA, SFVA, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
