benign migratory glossitis


ge·o·graph·ic tongue

idiopathic, asymptomatic erythematous circinate macules, often bounded peripherally by a white band, as a result of atrophy of the filiform papillae; with time the lesions resolve, coalesce, and change in distribution; frequently associated with fissured tongues. Synonym(s): benign migratory glossitis, glossitis areata exfoliativa, lingua geographica, pityriasis linguae
A relatively common condition characterised by idiopathic inflammation, possibly due to emotional stress; more common in children and adolescents
DiffDx Lingual syphilis with dense white patches
Management Rarely successful, i.e., empirical (e.g., vitamins, antibiotics, psychotherapy)

ge·o·graph·ic tongue

(jē'ŏ-graf'ik tŭng) Idiopathic, asymptomatic erythematous circinate macules, due to atrophy of filiform papillae; with time, lesions resolve, coalesce, and change in distribution.
Synonym(s): benign migratory glossitis, lingua geographica.