Geographic tongue (also known as benign migratory glossitis because the appearance is constantly changing), is a benign condition that affects around 2% of the population. It is described as well-defined, reddened areas on and around the sides of the tongue. These red zones usually have whitish or yellowish raised borders. The condition usually fluctuates in severity, with the red patches flaring up in one area for several hours to a few days, remain prominent for some time (days to weeks to months, depending on the individual), then fading away; however, the process generally goes into cycles in a different area or areas a few days, weeks or months later. When the condition waxes, the tongue often becomes sensitive (feels like it has been scalded or burned) to hot, spicy or acidic foods.
The cause of geographic tongue is not clear. Several factors have been hypothesized as potential causes including emotional stress, psychological factors, habits, allergies, diabetes and hormonal changes. Nonetheless, none of these factors have been confirmed to contribute to the appearance of geographic tongue. Geographic tongue and psoriasis (a skin disease) have been linked together: geographic tongue was noted to be more common in patients with psoriasis. Some theorize that geographic tongue an oral form of psoriasis.
Anyone can develop geographic tongue. The reason why some people are more prone to this condition than others is not well understood. It is not of infectious origin, however, so it’s not something contagious.
Geographic tongue is a benign condition that usually resolves by itself without causing sequela or complications, so most people do not require treatment. It’s not curable. If there are associated medical conditions, treatment of these may improve the appearance of the tongue.
Geographic tongue has never been demonstrated to undergo transformation to cancer.
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It's recommended by the American Cancer Association that every adult between the age of 20 and 80 does an annual skin screening by a licensed dermatologist.
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