A sore tongue in a patient with iron and vitamin B deficiency is most likely:

• A. Glossitis
• B. Leukoplakia
• C. Lichen planus
• D. Oral candidiasis

Answer: (A)

Glossitis is the inflammation of the tongue that fits a sore, smooth, red tongue seen with iron and vitamin B deficiencies. When these nutrients are low, the tongue mucosa loses its papillae and becomes thin and inflamed, producing pain, burning, and a lack of the normal textured surface. This nutritional deficiency pattern makes glossitis the most likely explanation for a sore tongue in this context. The other conditions don’t fit the same pattern: leukoplakia presents as a white patch rather than a tender, inflamed tongue; lichen planus often shows white, lacy patterns and sometimes erosive lesions; oral candidiasis presents with creamy plaques that can be wiped away and isn’t specifically tied to iron or B vitamin deficiency. Addressing the underlying deficiencies typically improves glossitis, along with symptomatic care for the tongue.