Differential Diagnosis for Tongue Herpes
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common presentation of tongue herpes as painful, fluid-filled blisters or ulcers on the tongue, which is consistent with HSV infection.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Aphthous ulcers: These are common, recurring ulcers on the mucous membranes, including the tongue, which can resemble herpes lesions.
- Traumatic ulcers: Accidental bites or other injuries to the tongue can cause ulcers that may be mistaken for herpes.
- Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD): This viral illness can cause ulcers on the tongue, among other symptoms.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Erythema multiforme: A severe skin and mucous membrane disorder that can cause ulcers on the tongue and lips, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: A rare but serious disorder that can cause severe ulcers on the tongue, lips, and other mucous membranes, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Oral cancer: Although rare, ulcers on the tongue can be a sign of oral cancer, which would require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Behçet's disease: A rare disorder that can cause ulcers on the tongue, among other symptoms.
- Pemphigus: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, including the tongue.
- Primary syphilis: A rare sexually transmitted infection that can cause a painless ulcer on the tongue, known as a chancre.