Tongue lesions in a Jordanian population. Prevalence, symptoms, subject's knowledge and treatment provided

Tongue lesions constitute a considerable proportion of oral mucosal lesions, and are health concern to both oral health care providers and public. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of tongue lesions and conditions among a group of Jordanian population attending dental clinics, in addition to assessment of their symptoms, knowledge, and treatment provided for their tongue lesions. Study design: A total of 2000 dental out-patients were screened for tongue lesions. Results: Fissured tongue was the most common tongue lesion diagnosed in 11.5% of the subjects, followed by coated tongue (8.2%), geographic tongue (4.8%), hairy tongue (2.4%) and median rhomboid glossitis (0.5%). Symptoms were reported by 28% of the subjects with geographic tongue and 23% with fissured tongue. The majority of the subjects (ranging from 61.1%-86.4%) were neither aware about their tongue lesions nor worried about their prognosis. Less than 50% of those who were aware of their tongue lesions sought medical advice. Conclusion: The high prevalence of tongue lesions necessitates higher awareness of the general dental practitioner by their etiology, diagnosis and management.