A colour atlas of diseases of the tongue

Lesions of the tongue may be if a simple local nature or may give an indication of severe underlying disease. The wide range of conditions that may involve the tongue are outlined in this article using a classification based on aetiology. Guidelines for management are also presented. Reassurance is all that is needed for some conditions, whereas others require urgent referral to a specialist in oral pathology and oral medicine - this article will help you tell the difference