Tip of the tongue diagnosis: Tongue signs in neurological diseases

Abstract

The tongue is a crucial organ with multiple roles in speech, taste, and overall oral function. Its complex anatomy and rich innervation make it an important site for detecting signs of systemic and neurological diseases. This review examines the various clinical signs observable on the tongue, which can aid in diagnosing a range of neurological conditions. We focus on the motor and sensory abnormalities, structural changes, and involuntary movements that may present in the tongue, highlighting their diagnostic value in identifying conditions such as motor neurone diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and systemic infections. Despite its clinical importance, the examination of the tongue is often overlooked in neurological assessments. By synthesizing relevant findings from a broad literature review, this study emphasizes the necessity of a thorough tongue examination as an integral component of neurological evaluations. Understanding these signs can improve diagnostic accuracy and facilitate appropriate patient management.