What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Benign Migratory Glossitis
• Glossitis Areata Exfoliative
• Wandering Rash of Tongue

What is Geographic Tongue? (Definition/Background Information)

• Geographic Tongue is a common benign condition that mostly involves the mucosal surface of the tongue. It results in inflammation of the top and sides of the tongue showing patchy red-white portions that appear like islands or boundaries on a geographical map
• The layout is demarcated as smooth and bright red irregular patterns on the tongue with slightly thickened white border, which lack the normally present tiny pink-white bumps seen on a tongue. These patterns clear up and move to another location on the tongue; hence, the condition is also termed as Benign Migratory Glossitis
• Geographic Tongue can be present for many weeks or months, and in some cases, even for years. The condition is mostly asymptomatic, but can cause pain and discomfort while eating spicy or salty foods
• When continuously present for a few weeks, Geographic Tongue may be indicative of an underlying condition/disorder. However, the exact cause of this oral condition is unknown. Some studies indicate a positive family history in individuals with Geographic Tongue
• In most cases, Geographic Tongue may be diagnosed based only on the appearance and changing patterns on the tongue. No treatment is usually required for the condition, since it does not present any symptoms
• Geographic Tongue is mostly self-resolving and the abnormal tongue patterns disappear after a period of time. The prognosis is generally excellent in a vast majority of the affected individuals

Who gets Geographic Tongue? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Geographic Tongue is a fairly common condition that reportedly affects 1 in every 40-100 individuals worldwide
• Children and adults are both known to be affected, though some reports indicate a higher incidence rate in children. Also, it is noted that adults over the age of 40 years are at a higher risk for Geographic Tongue
• Both males and females are affected. Some reports indicate a female predominance (2:1 female-male ratio)
• Racial, ethnic, or geographical predominance is not observed

What are the Risk Factors for Geographic Tongue? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Geographic Tongue are not well-established. However, some researchers believe that the following factors may be involved:

• A family history of the condition
• Psoriasis (a skin condition) - the relation between psoriasis and Geographic Tongue is not clearly known
• Emotional and psychologic stress
• Allergies
• Lichen planus
• Poorly-controlled diabetes
• Hormonal issues
• Nutritional deficiency
• The association of fissured tongue (a condition characterised by grooves on the tongue surface) with Geographic Tongue has been noted in some cases

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Geographic Tongue? (Etiology)

The exact cause of formation of Geographic Tongue is not well understood. The condition is not contagious and it does not spread from one individual to another.

• Numerous suggestions have been placed forward by the medical community, although no single implicating factor that is known to cause Geographic Tongue has been identified conclusively
• Some research scientists believe that it may be related to psoriasis, since many individuals with Geographic Tongue are noted to have psoriasis. However, the correlation between the two conditions is not yet established

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Geographic Tongue?            

The signs and symptoms of Geographic Tongue may include:

• Irregular red-white patterns on the tongue, especially on the sides and top
• The patterns are outlined by small raised whitish bumps and are known to migrate from one area on the tongue to another
• In most cases, no significant symptoms are noted, apart from the odd-shaped changing patterns
• Consuming hot, spicy, salty, or acidic foods may result in tongue irritation, burning sensation and pain
• Cigarette smoking, tobacco chewing, and the use of certain toothpastes can increase the burning sensation
• The symptoms are known to come and go

How is Geographic Tongue Diagnosed?

A Geographic Tongue is diagnosed using the following methods:

• Complete physical examination of the mouth and evaluation of the presenting symptoms
• Assessment of medical history including the evaluating for the presence of any underlying conditions
• Blood tests to rule-out other conditions including anemia
• A differential diagnosis to eliminate the following conditions that present similar symptoms may be required:
  • Chemical burns
  • Erythematous candidiasis
  • Glossitis (inflammation of the tongue)
  • Leukoplakia
  • Lupus erythematosus
  • Oral lichen planus

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Geographic Tongue?

Complications due to Geographic Tongue may include:

• Emotional stress from cosmetic issues (if any)
• Difficulty in enjoying certain foods and drinks
• Rarely, it may result in burning mouth syndrome
• Recurrence of the condition; Geographic Tongue may be long-lasting

How is Geographic Tongue Treated?

In a majority of cases, no treatment is necessary for Geographic Tongue, since it is typically asymptomatic. Nevertheless, if required, the following measures may be considered:

• Use of topical applications (anesthetics)
• Avoiding foods that are spicy and hot

How can Geographic Tongue be Prevented?

Currently, there are no available measures to prevent the development of Geographic Tongue. However, one may potentially lower the risk by following certain practices such as:

• Treating psoriasis adequately
• Addressing issues that cause emotional and psychologic stress
• Appropriately treating any allergies, lichen planus
• Having a well-balanced diet and exercising
• Addressing any hormonal issues suitably

What is the Prognosis of Geographic Tongue? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Geographic Tongue is difficult to ascertain, since the cause of the condition is not established
• However, the prognosis is mostly excellent, since there are no significant symptoms and complications noted
• Self-resolution of the condition with disappearance of the pattern is seen in many individuals (following a few weeks, months, or even after a few years)

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Geographic Tongue:

Please visit our Dental Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

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