Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Benign migratory glossitis, also known as geographic tongue, is a harmless condition that affects the mucous membrane of the tongue.It causes discolored, non-pigmented patches on the surface of the tongue, often appearing as island-like patches, giving the surface of the tongue a map-like appearance.Geographic tongue is an unusual condition, and you may be concerned about the appearance of your tongue.However, it is a benign and harmless condition.In fact, some people may not know they have it until their doctor accidentally notices it during a routine dental exam.Geographic tongue is a condition in which parts of the tongue appear whiter than the rest of the tongue.The scientific name for this condition is benign migratory glossitis, but it is called geographic tongue because the surface of the tongue often resembles an aerial map of geographical features.Fortunately, this disease is harmless, and people who are quickly familiar with the symptoms of oral cancer may think they have oral cancer.After observing any unusual phenomenon in the mouth, visit the dentist while maintaining composure.Rest assured that in most cases, it does not threaten you with a particular problem, but you should definitely visit the dentist to be sure.Geographic tongue is a benign condition characterized by inflammation of the tongue (glossitis) that appears in a map-like (geographic) pattern.The normal tongue is covered by a layer of small bumps called papillae.In affected individuals, certain areas of the tongue lack these bumps.These affected areas usually appear as flat, red or pink, atrophic patches.Geographic tongue tends to come and go, usually improving without treatment, but it often recurs, usually affecting a different area of the tongue.The exact cause of geographic tongue is unknown.The condition often runs in families, suggesting that genetics may play a role in causing the disorder.
Authors: Shahin Asadi, Arezo Zare
Language: English
Subfield: Periodontics
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4412962011