Pathology · single question
Patient presents with brown/black discoloration on dorsum of tongue (see image). What to do FIRST?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Oral hygiene instruction
Image shows BLACK HAIRY TONGUE (lingua villosa nigra) — elongated pigmented filiform papillae from poor oral hygiene, tobacco, antibiotics, coffee/tea. FIRST step: oral hygiene instruction and remove causative factor. Condition typically resolves. Biopsy NOT indicated.