Differential Diagnosis for Sore on Side of Tongue

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Traumatic ulcer: This is the most common cause of a sore on the side of the tongue, often resulting from accidental biting of the tongue or irritation from sharp teeth or dental work.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Aphthous ulcers: Also known as canker sores, these are small, painful ulcers that can appear on the tongue, inside the cheeks, and on the lips.
  • Oral lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause white patches and painful sores on the tongue and other parts of the mouth.
  • Geographic tongue: A condition characterized by the appearance of single or multiple, well-demarcated areas of erythema (redness) on the tongue, which can sometimes be painful.
• Do Not Miss diagnoses
  • Oral cancer: Although less common, a sore on the side of the tongue that does not heal can be a sign of oral cancer, making it crucial for early detection and diagnosis.
  • Tuberculosis: In rare cases, tuberculosis can manifest as oral ulcers, including on the tongue, emphasizing the importance of considering this diagnosis, especially in high-risk populations.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Erythema multiforme: A rare skin condition that can also affect the mucous membranes, including the tongue, causing painful ulcers and redness.
  • Pemphigus vulgaris: A chronic autoimmune skin disease that can cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, including the tongue, leading to painful sores.
  • Syphilis: In its secondary stage, syphilis can cause mucous patches or ulcers in the mouth, including on the tongue, which are usually painless but can be painful in some cases.