Symptom Finder - Tongue Ulcers
TONGUE ULCERS
The mnemonic MINT will help the recall of the important causes of tongue ulcers.
M—Malformation suggests malocclusion, which can cause repetitive trauma to the tongue. Also dental prostheses can promote ulceration.
I—Inflammation provokes the recall of herpes simplex, Vincent stomatitis, herpes zoster, syphilis, and tuberculosis. This reminds one of chickenpox, smallpox, and pemphigus.
N—Neoplasm suggests leukoplakia and carcinoma of the tongue.
T—Trauma is probably the major cause of ulcerations. Repetitive trauma from a sharp, broken, or carious tooth produces painful ulceration.
Approach to the Diagnosis
Herpes simplex and herpes zoster can be diagnosed by the Tzanck tests, viral isolation, or serologic tests. A fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA–ABS) test will diagnose syphilis. A biopsy will be necessary to diagnose carcinoma. It is best to refer these patients to an oral surgeon if the ulcers do not clear up with observation and conventional treatment.
The mnemonic MINT will help the recall of the important causes of tongue ulcers.
M—Malformation suggests malocclusion, which can cause repetitive trauma to the tongue. Also dental prostheses can promote ulceration.
I—Inflammation provokes the recall of herpes simplex, Vincent stomatitis, herpes zoster, syphilis, and tuberculosis. This reminds one of chickenpox, smallpox, and pemphigus.
N—Neoplasm suggests leukoplakia and carcinoma of the tongue.
T—Trauma is probably the major cause of ulcerations. Repetitive trauma from a sharp, broken, or carious tooth produces painful ulceration.
Approach to the Diagnosis
Herpes simplex and herpes zoster can be diagnosed by the Tzanck tests, viral isolation, or serologic tests. A fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA–ABS) test will diagnose syphilis. A biopsy will be necessary to diagnose carcinoma. It is best to refer these patients to an oral surgeon if the ulcers do not clear up with observation and conventional treatment.
