Differential Diagnosis for Blister on Tongue Causing Swelling
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Traumatic oral mucosa injury (e.g., bite, burn): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common occurrence of accidental bites or burns to the tongue, which can cause blisters and swelling.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Aphthous ulcer: Although typically found on the inside of the cheeks, lips, or throat, aphthous ulcers can occasionally appear on the tongue and may resemble blisters.
- Oral herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection: HSV can cause painful blisters on the tongue, especially during primary infection.
- Allergic contact stomatitis: An allergic reaction to substances like food, toothpaste, or mouthwash can lead to blister-like lesions and swelling on the tongue.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Angioedema: A severe, potentially life-threatening condition that can cause rapid swelling of the tongue, which may be accompanied by blister-like lesions.
- Erythema multiforme: A skin condition that can affect the mucous membranes, including the tongue, and may present with blisters and swelling.
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome: A rare but serious disorder that can cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, including the tongue.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Pemphigus vulgaris: A chronic autoimmune skin disease that can cause blistering lesions on the skin and mucous membranes, including the tongue.
- Bullous pemphigoid: Another autoimmune disease that can cause blistering lesions, although it is less common in the oral cavity.
- Oral lichen planus: A chronic inflammatory condition that can cause white patches, redness, and blister-like lesions on the tongue and other mucous membranes.