Importance of Tongue Manifestations in Iron Deficiency Anemia - A Case Report

Tongue acts as a mirror reflecting the systemic health status of the body. Various systemic diseases including endocrinopathies, nutritional disorders, hematologic disorders, systemic infections can manifest signs and symptoms in the tongue and oral mucosa [1]. Iron is one of the most important trace elements required by the human body, it plays a significant role in maintaining the physiological process of all cells including growth and differentiation. An average of 3–5 grams of iron is stored in the human body, most of which is found in the blood, liver, bone marrow and muscles as heme. Daily iron loss through skin, minor blood losses and by enteric desquamation is about 1–2 mg [2]. Anemia is one of the major health problem worldwide. In Developing countries like India, Iron deficiency is one of the most common cause of Anemia. World Health Organization (WHO) defines Anemia as state of blood with hemoglobin level less than 12 gm/dl in women and less than 13 gm/dl in men. Iron deficiency Anemia (IDA) is more prevalent in women than men. It is also reported to be common among children and adolescents [3]. This case reports highlights the diagnosis of IDA from its manifestations in the tongue. Keywords: Blood cell count, Ferritin, Fissured Tongue, Glossitis, Iron Deficiency Anemia.