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Black hairy tongue. A scanning electron microscopic study
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Black hairy tongue, often linked to oral malignancy, involves elongated papillae trapping fungi and bacteria. This study examines the microscopic structure and potential causes of this condition in a patient with tongue cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oral pathology
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Black hairy tongue (BHT) is a benign, temporary oral condition.
- It is characterized by a dark, furry appearance of the tongue dorsum.
- The exact etiology of BHT remains unclear, with various factors implicated.
Observation:
- A patient presenting with tongue malignancy also exhibited symptoms of BHT.
- Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was utilized to examine tissue samples.
- Samples were taken from both the affected BHT area and a normal-appearing tongue region.
Findings:
- SEM revealed that the 'hairs' of BHT are elongated filiform papillae.
- Accumulated keratinized layers were observed on these papillae.
- Microscopic analysis identified the presence of fungi and bacteria within these keratin layers.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a potential role for microbial and keratin accumulation in BHT development.
- Understanding the microscopic basis of BHT may aid in managing associated oral conditions.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise etiological factors and clinical significance of BHT in patients with oral malignancy.