Pathology · single question
CASE 11 — What is the treatment for black hairy tongue?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Eliminate causative factors and mechanically clean the tongue
- A. Black hairy tongue is treated by eliminating causative factors (discontinue antibiotics/tobacco/coffee when possible, improve oral hygiene) and mechanical tongue scraping/brushing. It is self-limiting once triggers are removed.
- B. Antivirals are for viral infections; black hairy tongue is not viral.
- C. Surgical excision is not indicated for black hairy tongue.
- D. Antifungals are for candidiasis — not black hairy tongue (though Candida may co-exist in some cases).