Median rhomboid glossitis is a condition that, in most cases, represents chronic infection of the mid-posterior dorsal tongue by Candida albicans. While this was thought to be a developmental anomaly at one time, there is little supportive evidence.
Patients are usually adults and no significant sex predilection is noted.
In most instances, the condition is asymptomatic, although some patients may report a mild burning or itching sensation of the mid-posterior dorsal tongue.
Most patients affected by median rhomboid glossitis have no other systemic complaints, although diabetic patients may have an increased prevalence of the condition.
Most examples are chronic, lasting months.
Median rhomboid glossitis - Oral Mucosal Lesion
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis
Codes
ICD10CM:
K14.0 – Glossitis
SNOMEDCT:
7522008 – Median rhomboid glossitis
K14.0 – Glossitis
SNOMEDCT:
7522008 – Median rhomboid glossitis
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Squamous cell carcinoma – While the micronodular erythematous surface of median rhomboid glossitis may appear ominous, squamous cell carcinoma is quite rare on the dorsal tongue.
- Hemangioma / lymphangioma – These vascular malformations can occasionally involve the dorsal tongue mucosa, although a more vesicle-like appearance is typically noted with careful observation.
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Therapy
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References
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Last Updated:08/07/2023
Median rhomboid glossitis - Oral Mucosal Lesion