Pathology · single question
A recently adopted child presents with hairy tongue. What is the most likely cause?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Malnutrition
HAIRY TONGUE (lingua villosa) in a recently adopted child from a deprived background is most likely caused by MALNUTRITION/nutritional deficiency. Poor nutrition leads to changes in the oral flora, altered keratinization, and overgrowth of filiform papillae (the 'hairs'). In institutionalized or adoptive children with nutritional deficiency, hairy tongue is a recognized finding. Other causes include antibiotics, smoking, poor hygiene, and xerostomia — but in an adopted child, malnutrition is the most clinically relevant.
- A. CORRECT. In a recently adopted child, nutritional deficiency/malnutrition is the most likely cause of hairy tongue. Poor nutrition alters the balance of oral microbiota and affects filiform papillae, leading to their elongation (hairy tongue). Improved nutrition resolves the condition.
- B. INCORRECT. Hairy tongue is not an autoimmune condition. It does not involve antibody-mediated destruction of cells.