What characterizes median rhomboid glossitis?

• A. White patches on the tongue
• B. Red, smooth, and atrophic area
• C. Painful blisters on the tongue
• D. Yellow-coated tongue

Answer: (B)

Median rhomboid glossitis is characterized by a red, smooth, and atrophic area on the dorsal surface of the tongue, usually in the midline and positioned towards the back. This condition occurs due to the loss of papillae and can often be associated with a fungal infection, particularly from Candida species. The appearance is distinct, marked by a lack of the normal texture and color that is typically seen on the tongue, leading to the recognizable symptomatology.

The other options describe different conditions that affect the oral cavity but do not align with the features of median rhomboid glossitis. For instance, white patches would suggest conditions like leukoplakia or oral lichen planus, while painful blisters could indicate herpes simplex virus infections. A yellow-coated tongue might be seen in cases of poor oral hygiene or certain medical conditions but is not associated with median rhomboid glossitis.

This distinction is important for diagnosis and treatment in clinical practice, as recognizing the smooth, atrophic patches on the tongue is crucial for identifying median rhomboid glossitis specifically.