24 Red and purple lesions: Erythema migrans (lingual erythema migrans; benign migratory glossitis; geographical tongue; continental tongue)

Figure 24.1 Geographical tongue.

Figure 24.2 Geographical tongue – erythema migrans.

Figure 24.3 Geographical and fissured tongue.

Figure 24.4 Fissured and geographical tongue.

Figure 24.5 Geographical tongue.

Oral erythema migrans is a condition absolutely distinct from cutaneous erythema chronicum migrans, which refers to the rash often seen in the early stage of Lyme disease.

Definition: A benign inflammatory condition of the tongue with maplike areas of erythema which are not constant in size, shape or location.

Prevalence (approximate): 1–3% of the population.

Age mainly affected: More prominent in adults than in children.

Gender mainly affected: F > M.

Etiopathogenesis: It appears to be a genetic condition. A positive family history may be obtainable but HLA findings have been equivocal, with reported associations with B15, DR/>

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