10 Causes of a Sore Tongue
Cause #8: Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is a chronic condition affecting the mucous membranes, skin, hair, and nails. Characterized by papules and plaques that are flat-topped and polygonal, it also has an overlying reticulated fine white scale that is most commonly seen on the trunk, dorsal hands, forearms, flexural wrists, anterior lower legs, and oral mucosa.
Lichen planus is thought to be due to an autoimmune process. Although there is no cure, current treatment and management aims to help control the symptoms. When it affects the oral mucosa, six clinical forms are recognized: reticular, papular, erosive or ulcerative, atrophic, plaque-like, and bullous. While uncommon, some patients experience soreness and pain on the tongue and other parts of the oral cavity when drinking or eating acidic or spicy food and beverages.
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