Differential Diagnosis for Sore Tongue
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Aphthous ulcers: These are the most common cause of a sore tongue, characterized by small, painful ulcers that can appear on the tongue, lips, and inside of the mouth. They are often recurrent and can be triggered by stress, trauma, or certain foods.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Oral thrush: A fungal infection that can cause white patches and soreness on the tongue and inside of the mouth.
- Geographic tongue: A condition characterized by patches on the tongue that give it a map-like appearance, often accompanied by soreness and sensitivity.
- Burning mouth syndrome: A condition that causes a burning sensation on the tongue, lips, and inside of the mouth, often without any visible signs of infection or inflammation.
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12, iron, or folate deficiency): Deficiencies in these nutrients can cause soreness, inflammation, and changes in the appearance of the tongue.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Oral cancer: Although rare, oral cancer can cause a sore tongue, especially if it is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or a lump in the neck.
- Herpes simplex virus infection: A viral infection that can cause painful blisters and sores on the tongue and inside of the mouth.
- Syphilis: A bacterial infection that can cause a sore tongue, especially in its secondary stage, accompanied by other symptoms such as rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pemphigus: A rare autoimmune disease that causes blisters and sores on the skin and mucous membranes, including the tongue.
- Erythema multiforme: A rare skin condition that can cause sores and blisters on the tongue and inside of the mouth, often accompanied by other symptoms such as fever and rash.
- Glossitis: Inflammation of the tongue, which can be caused by various factors, including infections, allergies, and nutritional deficiencies.