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Please Note: Due to volume considerations, not all questions can be answered. Questions most likely to be answered will be those of general interest to a broad group of visitors to this forum. Questions pertaining to a specific case; requests for diagnosis, medical advice, or second opinion; or requests for opinions about untested alternative therapies will generally not be answered.

Ask the Experts about Oral Health and HIV

 

Herpes?
Mar 15, 2000

Dr.Reznik,

Can Herpes show up on the point of your tongue? For about 9 months I have been getting a row of small bumps ( sometimes they are in a semi-circle) they seem to become more red over the week or so, the taste buds in the area vanish to a smooth colorless surface, and only toward the end of the outbreak does it hurt a little. By the end of the second week it seem to go away...However, lately another area will show up a week to a few days after it heals?

What is this, Herpes, HPV, Ulcers? I need help.

Thank you in advance.

Response from Dr. Reznik

As much as I would like to help you with your diagnosis, you really need to see a dentist who is experienced in oral medicine or pathology the next time these lesions occur. With this in mind, herpes virus outbreaks within the oral cavity tend to appear on keratinized tissues such as the roof of the mouth, gingiva (gums) and lips. What you have described does not sound like HSV, HPV or any type of ulceration. What you are experiencing could be anything from geographic tongue to a reaction to a food; hence the reason you should let a professional take a look the next time they occur.

Take care,

DR



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