A patient reports a persistent burning sensation of the tongue with no visible mucosal lesion. What altered taste sensation is MOST characteristic of this condition?

Correct answer: D. A metallic or bitter taste

• A. Complete ageusia suggests neurological injury or drug effect, not burning mouth syndrome.
• B. An isolated salty taste is not characteristic.
• C. A persistently sweet taste is not a recognised feature of the syndrome.
• D. Correct. BURNING MOUTH SYNDROME classically presents with the triad of oral burning without visible cause, DYSGEUSIA (most often a METALLIC or bitter taste), and subjective xerostomia despite measurably normal salivary flow. It predominantly affects post-menopausal women, and symptoms characteristically worsen through the day and are relieved by eating.