$Unique_ID{BRK01277}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is a White Patch on the Tongue Anything to Worry About?}
$Subject{tongue patches leukoplakia digestive system patch plaque plaques
white gray yellowish-white brownish-yellow speckled discolored mouth}
$Volume{I-11}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is a White Patch on the Tongue Anything to Worry About?


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QUESTION:  While taking a good look inside my mouth after a morning brushing,
I noticed what looks like a big white patch on my tongue.  This is something
new, and I am wondering if I have anything to worry about?

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ANSWER:  A white spot on the tongue is a red flag you shouldn't ignore.
Though very often the cause is a simple irritant such as alcohol, tobacco,
spicy foods, or too-sharp teeth, "leukoplakia" the name given to certain
plaques or patches on the tongue, can also signal a vitamin A or B deficiency,
syphilis, or mouth cancer.  The plaques may be of different shapes or colors.
They can be white, gray, yellowish-white, brownish-yellow or speckled.
     Before you assume the worst, banish alcohol, tobacco and spicy foods from
your life; satisfy yourself that your teeth or dentures aren't scraping your
tongue.  And see your doctor as soon as possible about a biopsy, the best way
to tell a dangerous plaque from a harmless one.  By examining the tissue under
a microscope he can soon tell if it is serious or a relatively benign
condition.  If the patch is small, your doctor may be able to remove it
surgically or cauterize it on the spot.  No matter what the diagnosis, your
physician will probably want you to have your tongue checked every three to
six months, to be sure that all is well.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.