Atrophic glossitis

A condition characterized by a smooth, glossy, erythematous, edematous tongue that is generally painful.

The tongue appears smooth because of loss of filiform and fungiform papillae. This condition occurs during a vitamin B deficiency, such as in pellagra, and certain disorders like pernicious anemia.



Causes

1. Anemia

• Folic Acid deficiency Anemia
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
• Iron Deficiency Anemia

2. Other possible Vitamin Deficiencies

• Pyridoxine deficiency
• Riboflavin deficiency
• Niacin deficiency

3. Anti-cancer drugs

4. Riley-Day Dysautonia Syndrome



Synonyms:

* bald tongue

* hunter glossitis

* Moeller glossitis