Geographic tongue

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Definition Symptoms Causes

When to seek medical advice Treatments and drugs

Definition

The tongue is normally covered with a layer of small bumps (papillae). Geographic tongue results when these projections are missing in certain areas of the tongue. The papillae loss creates smooth, red patches on the tongue, giving it a map-like, or geographic, appearance.

Geographic tongue can cause tongue discomfort and increased sensitivity to hot or spicy foods. But most people, besides seeing a change in their tongue's appearance, experience no other signs or symptoms.

Geographic tongue isn't triggered by an infection or another disease, and it's not related to mouth cancer. It doesn't have long-term health implications and occurs in otherwise healthy people. Though persistent and sometimes uncomfortable, geographic tongue resolves without treatment.

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Symptoms