Glossitis (synonyms: Fede-Riga disease; gingivoglossitis; glossitis; glossitis chronica superficialis; glossitis interstitialis sclerosa; glossitis superficialis corticalis; glossodynia exfoliativa; Hunter glossitis; Hunter disease [glossitis]; Möller glossitis; Möller-Hunter glossitis; subglossitis; tongue inflammation; tongue papillitis; tongue ulceration; ICD-10-GM K14. 0: Glossitis) refers to an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the tongue.
The following forms of glossitis are distinguished:
- Glossitis superficialis – inflammation of the superficial layers of the tongue.
- Glossitis profunda – additional involvement of the deep layers of the tongue.
Glossitis can occur acutely or chronically. It may be caused by local causes or systemic diseases.
Often glossitis occurs in combination with stomatitis (inflammation of the oral mucosa).
Course and prognosis: Glossitis is accompanied by pain. This occurs mainly at the tip and edges of the tongue. If the tongue is swollen, speaking and swallowing become difficult. In rare cases, dysgeusia (taste disorder) may also occur.
The prognosis is better if the glossitis is based on a diagnosable and treatable disease. With symptomatic therapy, the chances of cure are lower.
