Geographic Tongue Presentation — NDEB AFK MCQ
Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.
Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.
Reveal the answer and explanation
Correct answer: E — Migratory red patches with white-yellow raised serpiginous borders on the dorsal tongue that change position over days to weeks
Geographic tongue presents with erythematous patches (areas of filiform papillae desquamation) bordered by white-yellow, slightly raised, serpiginous margins on the dorsal and lateral tongue surfaces. The patches characteristically migrate (change position) over days to weeks — hence 'migratory glossitis.' It is benign, affects 1-3% of the population, is associated with fissured tongue and psoriasis, and no treatment is required unless symptomatic (occasional burning sensation with spicy/acidic foods).
Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016