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I have a recurrent spot coming on my tongue. What is the cause?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have a spot that keeps on coming on my tongue. I have consulted an ENT specialist and I need a second opinion. The doctor was not able to diagnose it. I am worried. Please suggest.

Answered by Dr. Sandeep Shrestha

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

As per the picture, (attachment removed to protect patient identity) the most probable diagnosis is geographic tongue. The most common cause is vitamin deficiency. You can take a multivitamin tablet once a day for two months.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

Yes, it comes back at the same spot every time and it is present all over my tongue. The doctor told me that it can be present from birth. I want a second opinion. I do not want it to be cancer. Am I talking to an ENT specialist?

Answered by Dr. Sandeep Shrestha

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, you are talking with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. As per the picture, it seems to be denuded tongue papilla. You do not need to worry about cancer. The geographic tongue will not be present from birth. If it remains even after taking multivitamins, then you need to do a biopsy to rule out the cause.

Answered byDr. Sandeep Shrestha

Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana

Published At February 21, 2021
Reviewed AtAugust 24, 2023

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

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Dr. Sandeep Shrestha

Otolaryngology (E.N.T)

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