Differential Diagnosis for Tongue Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Trauma or minor injury: This is the most common cause of tongue pain, often resulting from accidental biting of the tongue, eating hot or spicy foods, or other minor injuries.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Oral thrush (candidiasis): A fungal infection that can cause pain, redness, and white patches on the tongue.
- Geographic tongue: A benign condition characterized by the appearance of single or multiple, well-demarcated areas of erythema (redness) on the tongue, which can be painful.
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12, iron, or folate deficiency): Deficiencies in these vitamins and minerals can cause tongue pain, inflammation, or changes in the appearance of the tongue.
- Burning mouth syndrome: A chronic condition characterized by a burning sensation on the tongue, lips, and roof of the mouth, often without any visible signs of disease.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Oral cancer: Although rare, oral cancer can cause tongue pain, ulcers, or changes in the appearance of the tongue, and is a critical diagnosis not to miss.
- Angina bullosa hemorrhagica: A rare condition characterized by the sudden onset of blood-filled blisters on the tongue, which can be painful and may be associated with bleeding disorders.
- Herpes simplex virus infection: A viral infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers on the tongue, which can be severe and require prompt treatment.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Pemphigus vulgaris: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, including the tongue.
- Aphthous ulcers: Recurrent, painful ulcers on the tongue and other oral mucous membranes, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition and autoimmune disorders.
- Erythema multiforme: A rare skin condition that can cause painful, target-shaped lesions on the tongue and other mucous membranes.