Geographic tongue

Other names:

Erythema Migrans, Benign Migratory Glossitis, Erythema Areata Migrans, Stomatitis Areata Migrans

Wandering Rash, Glossitis Areata Exfoliativa , Lingua Geographica, Transitory Benign Plaques Of The Tongue , Dorsal surface of the tongue

It is categorized as a chronic inflammatory condition of the tongue characterized by small patches disappear and reappear in a short period of time (hours or days), change in shape or size. the lesions appear as annular, circinate, or serpiginous along with slightly depressed atrophic centers (devoid of filiform papillae) and raised grayish white borders. Co-existence of fissures may also be present. Burning sensation occurs when tongue comes in contact with tomato, cheese, mouth rinses etc. Whitish/yellow discoloration of the tongue is frequently due to a yeast infection

Main etiological factors responsible are : environmental sensitivity-asthma, allergies, stress, smoking , harmonal changes-pre-mensturation, pregnancy, vitamin deficiency

Histopathology:

Irregular areas of dekeratinized and desquamated filiform papillae (red in color) are surrounded by elevated whitish or yellow margins due to acantholysis and hyperkeratosis. Neutrophils migrate into the epithelial layer, creating what are termed Munoros abscesses.

It is linked with psoriasis on the basis of presence of these abscesses. However, both the entities are different.

Treatment:  

Remove known etiology

Smear for detection of candida; apply candid solution

Steroid application-Triamcinolone Acetonide Dental Paste USP,0.1%

Vit B supplements

Zincum Gluconium 2x, 13.3 mg-Cold-Eeze -Relieves in 2 days (homeopathic)

Chewing mint leaves/ candies