Common Misdiagnoses of Glossitis

Glossitis is inflammation of the tongue characterized by swelling, soreness and redness. The loss of papillae (finger-like projections) usually found along the tongue's surface may give the tongue a "smooth" appearance. Glossitis has a number of causes that include certain infections, trauma (such as a burn), an allergic reaction, exposure to very hot foods and/or spices as well as a dry mouth associated with other underlying conditions. Constant alcohol or tobacco use may also lead to glossitis. Glossitis has also been associated with disorders, such as iron deficiency anemia, pernicious anemia, other B-vitamin deficiencies, and syphilis.

Glossitis usually causes the patient oral discomfort and, in the case of a swollen tongue, can block the patient's airway. Additionally the patient may experience difficulties with speaking, chewing and swallowing.

Common Misdiagnoses of Glossitis

Diagnosis of glossitis is done with the goal of reducing the inflammation. Upon getting a list of symptoms, a health care provider or dentist will do a sight examination as well as get a medical history to determine the presence of any underlying condition. To rule out other medical conditions, the doctor may request a blood test. Also, the doctor will get information on the patient's lifestyle to determine possible causes. For example, the patient will be asked about his or her smoking or alcohol habits, if any or whether they eat a lot of hot or spicy food on a consistent basis.

Once diagnosed, glossitis is usually treated with some commonsense instructions, such as practicing good oral hygiene. Sometimes the symptoms will ease if a patient brushes and flosses more, at least twice a day. However, if a bacteria is determined to be the cause, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antifungal medications or other types of antimicrobials. If anemia is determined, the doctor will prescribe dietary changes along with iron supplements. The patient may be ordered to avoid particularly spicy or overly hot foods.

Although glossitis usually disappears with proper treatment, the condition is sometimes mistaken for other disorders, such as psoriasis, glucagonoma and medial rhomboid glossitis. Treatments for these conditions may vary from those needed to treat glossitis and may not fully treat the condition or may aggravate symptoms. When the glossitis is symptomatic of an underlying condition, that condition will also go untreated if the glossitis is not properly and diagnosed in a timely manner.

Talk to a Lawyer

If your glossitis or an underlying condition went undiagnosed, and the misdiagnosis has caused you harm, you may recover damages for additional expenses arising from the misdiagnosis. Under the theory of medical malpractice, you can recover medical expenses, lost wages, and in some cases, pain and suffering. Talk with an experienced malpractice attorney to discuss your case.