What is atrophic tongue?

Atrophic glossitis occurs when the small doorknob-like projections on the tongue, called papillae, are worn away. The condition affects both the filiform and fungiform papillae, altering the color and texture of the tongue. This condition is also known as Hunter glossitis, Moeller glossitis, or Möller-Hunter glossitis.

What causes atrophic glossitis?

Atrophic glossitis is a non-specific finding, and has a great many causes, usually related to iron-deficiency anemia, pernicious anemia, B vitamin complex deficiencies, unrecognized and untreated celiac disease (which often presents without gastrointestinal symptoms), or other factors such as xerostomia (dry mouth).

What causes swollen foliate papillae?

Burns, cuts, or injuries to the tongue can all cause swelling to occur, while exposure to spicy, sour, hot, or cold foods can lead to irritation. Infections. Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections — such as the cold and flu – can also make the tongue swell.

What causes atrophy of tongue papillae?

1 The etiology of papillary atrophy includes both local diseases, such as oral candidiasis and chemical irritantation, and systemic diseases such as nutrition deficiencies, amyloidosis, and celiac disease.

What vitamin deficiency affects the tongue?

Clinical Findings in Tongue Pathology Nutritional deficiencies include iron, folate and vitamin B12 deficiency. B12 deficiency will also make the tongue sore and beefy-red in color. Glossitis, by causing swelling of the tongue, may also cause the tongue to appear smooth.

What does atrophic glossitis look like?

Atrophic glossitis (AG) is an inflammatory disorder of the tongue mucosa that shows a smooth, glossy appearance with a red or pink background [2].

What do foliate papillae look like?

Foliate papillae appear as 3 to 4 small folds on the side of the back of the tongue. They are a pinkish red, soft, and contain taste buds. They may also contain lymphoid tissue and appear yellowish beige in colour.

Does B12 deficiency cause glossitis?

Hunter’s glossitis, a well-known oral feature of B12 deficiency, presents as diffuse bright red patches (“beefy red” patches) initially and gradually progresses to atrophic glossitis. Lesions primarily occur on the dorsal and ventral surfaces and the margin of the tongue.

Can low vitamin D cause tongue problems?

In some cases, the root cause of a burning tongue or burning mouth syndrome could be a vitamin D deficiency. That is why it is imperative that you get a blood test done to check your vitamin levels checked. .