Fissured Tongue
A developmental variation of the tongue characterised by multiple grooves or fissures on the dorsal surface, which may accumulate debris and predispose to local irritation.
Full Definition
Fissured tongue, also called scrotal or plicated tongue, presents as numerous grooves of varying depth distributed across the dorsal tongue surface. It is considered a normal anatomical variant rather than a pathological entity, though it is frequently associated with geographic tongue and is a recognised component of Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome. Debris accumulation in the fissures can occasionally cause halitosis or mild discomfort. Editors should note that 'scrotal tongue' is considered colloquial and generally avoided in formal clinical writing; 'fissured tongue' or 'plicated tongue' are preferred.
Usage
Usage note: 'Scrotal tongue' is colloquial and inappropriate in formal clinical documents; use 'fissured tongue' or 'plicated tongue'.
In Context
- "Fissured tongue was noted bilaterally, with no associated erythema or ulceration." — Oral medicine consultation note
- "The term 'scrotal tongue' should be replaced with the preferred clinical term 'fissured tongue' throughout the manuscript." — Peer review comment