Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 14, 2026
Technique to Collect Fungiform Taste Papillae from Human Tongue
Published on: September 18, 2010
Identifying Chili as a Risk Factor for the Geographic Tongue: A Case Report
Yessy Novianti1, Nanan Nur'aeny2
1Oral Medicine Residency Program, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung, Indonesia.
Introduction:
Geographic tongue (GT) is a chronic tongue condition triggered by various factors such as immune reactions, allergies, stress, hereditary factors, and nutritional deficiencies. The prevalence of GT in the population ranges from 1% to 3%, and its symptoms can cause discomfort to patients. Spicy foods are popular among Indonesians. Chili is one such food that can cause allergies and trigger GT.
Objective:
This report highlights the significance of identifying the risk factors associated with symptomatic GT.
Case:
A 19-year-old female patient complained of a rough and sore dorsal tongue for a year, particularly after consuming spicy food. Extra-oral examination revealed dry lips. Intra-oral examination showed red patches with white borders on the dorsal tongue. A complete blood count and allergy test were performed. The eosinophil count was 4%, the total IgE level was 698 IU/mL, and the skin prick test for chili was positive. The diagnosis of chili-induced GT was made.
Case Management:
The patient was advised to avoid chilies, and benzydamine hydrochloride mouthwash was administered. One week after treatment, clinical improvement was observed. Severity decreased on the Geographic Tongue Area and Severity Index (GTASI) from 12 (moderate) to 0.4 (mild). Pain decreased from 6 to 0 on the numerical rating scale (NRS).
Conclusion:
Management of symptomatic GT includes the avoidance of allergens such as chilies and appropriate pharmacological therapy. The identification of risk factors is required for effective management.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Assessment of the Mouth
Mouth Inspection
The inspection begins with visually examining the mouth for symmetry, color, and size.
01:27Gastritis-I: Introduction and Types
Acute gastritis presents as a sudden inflammation triggered by various stressors to the stomach lining, such as exposure to corrosive agents, local irritants like aspirin and other NSAIDs, alcohol consumption, radiation therapy, physical trauma, severe burns, sepsis,...
01:30Peptic Ulcer Disease I: Introduction
An acute ulcer, marked by superficial erosion and minimal inflammation, swiftly resolves upon identifying and addressing the underlying cause. In contrast, a chronic ulcer persists, potentially eroding through the muscular wall and forming fibrous tissue.
Peptic ulcers can also be...