Glossitis

Alternative names:

tongue infection; tongue inflammation

Definition:

An abnormality of the tongue that results from inflammation.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Changes in the appearance of the tongue may be a primary tongue disorder or may be a symptom of other disorders. Glossitis occurs when there is acute or chronic inflammation of the tongue. It causes the tongue to swell and change color. Papillae (finger-like projections on the surface of the tongue) are lost, causing the tongue to appear smooth. Also see geographic tongue.

Local causes of glossitis include bacterial or viral infections (including oral herpes simplex); mechanical irritation or injury from burns, rough edges of teeth or dental and oral appliances, or other trauma; exposure to irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, hot foods, or spices; and sensitization (allergic reaction) from toothpaste, mouthwash, breath fresheners, dyes in candy, plastic in dentures or retainers, and so on. Systemic causes of glossitis include iron deficiency anemia, pernicious anemia and other B vitamin deficiencies, oral lichen planus, erythema multiform, aphthous ulcers, pemphigus vulgaris, syphilis, and other disorders. Occasionally, glossitis can be inherited.