Which term describes inflammation of the tongue and can be caused by deficiencies of vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron?

• A. Glossitis
• B. Aphthous Stomatitis
• C. Glossoplegia
• D. Xerostomia

Answer: (A)

Glossitis is the inflammation of the tongue. When the tongue becomes inflamed due to nutritional deficiencies, it often presents as a red, swollen, and sometimes painful surface. Deficiencies of vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron disrupt the normal turnover and maintenance of the tongue’s mucosal cells. B12 and folate are crucial for DNA synthesis in rapidly dividing cells; when they’re lacking, the tongue mucosa can atrophy and become inflamed, leading to a smooth, beefy red appearance and tenderness. Iron deficiency also affects the tongue’s epithelium, contributing to inflammation and soreness. These deficiencies may accompany conditions like pernicious anemia or malnutrition and can manifest as glossitis.

Other conditions described in the options don’t fit this pattern: aphthous stomatitis involves localized ulcers on mucosa rather than a diffuse inflamed tongue; xerostomia is the sensation of dry mouth due to reduced saliva; glossoplegia refers to weakness of the tongue rather than inflammation.