An inflammatory condition, geographic tongue (or benign migratory glossitis) often affects the top and sides of the tongue. Learn more about this condition here.

Affected tongues often display a bald, red patch of varied widths, with an uneven white border. The tongue's usual finger-like and mushroom-shaped projections (papilla) are gone, giving the afflicted area a smooth and flat look. Occasionally, lesions that look like those on the gums, tongue, palate, or cheeks will arise elsewhere in the mouth. These sores are medically referred to as erythema migrans or geographic stomatitis.

Why do people  get geographic tongue?

There is no recognised aetiology for geographic tongue. Emotional stress, psychological variables, habits, allergies, diabetes, and hormone changes are all speculated to play a role. However, no direct correlation between these variables and regional speech has been found. Psoriasis, a skin disorder, has been linked to geographic tongue. Psoriasis patients were shown to have a higher incidence of geographic tongue. Geographic tongue has been likened to psoriasis of the mouth by certain researchers.

Geographic tongue: who gets it?

Geographical tongue is rather prevalent. It may happen at any age, even in young people. Between 1% and 2.5% of the population may be affected. Geographic tongue, so named because it varies in colour, shape, and size among afflicted persons. It's not uncommon to find many impacted locations. It's also possible for lesions to vanish altogether for a while before reappearing. It is not uncommon for patients to experience both geographic tongue and fissured tongue.

Can you pass this on to others?

The answer is negative; geographic language cannot be spread to other people. It is not contagious at all. However, if you need to maintain basic hygiene practices so that you don’t contract any other infections. Consult a doctor for guidance.

Can Geographic Tongue Be Cured Without Treatment?

The typical signs of geographic tongue are non-existent. This ailment often does not require treatment. Geographic tongue can occasionally result in a painful or uncomfortable feeling on the tongue. Numbing the skin's surface with a topical anaesthetic is an option here. Pain medication may include anti-inflammatory medicines (cortisone-like medications). However, you may have to stay clear of certain foods and beverages that may irritate the lining of your mouth.

Can geographic tongue cause malignant diseases?

No. No cases of malignancies caused by geographic tongue have been reported. Most diagnoses may be made by observation alone, without the need for invasive procedures.