Description: The lesions of this disease are so characteristic that recognition is instantaneous. The dorsal tongue displays maplike areas that are smooth and red with a whitish-yellow rim at the perimeter. Atrophy of filiform papillae accounts for the red areas. Parakeratin accumulation is seen in the rim. The disease may involve any oral mucosal surface in which case the name stomatitis areata migrans is given.
All ages are affected. We have seen it in a child six months old. The number of lesions varies from one to many. Old lesions heal and new ones form, waxing and waning in rhythm with unknown forces. Most patients are without symptoms which is fortunate, since there is no known successful treatment for the disease. Some complain of a mild burning sensation.
Etiology: Unknown
Treatment: None is required.
Prognosis: This is a chronic disease lasting months to years which may show periods of remission and exacerbation.
Differential diagnosis: The lesions are characteristic and differential diagnosis is not a problem.