White spot on the right side of tongue

[hoss1985]

Hello! I recently found this little white spot on the right side of my tongue. Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.

 

[honestdoc]

It seems like enlarged tonsillar papillae which should resolve on its own. Watch it for 2 weeks and if still present, take another image.

 

[hoss1985]

Thanks for the response. I’ll upload another image in 2 weeks if it’s still there.

 

[hoss1985]

Hello again,
The bump still looks the same. Not tender, pretty soft. Any thoughts are highly appreciated.

 

[honestdoc]

I cannot expand on your latest image to view. I believe it may be a capillary (simplex) lymphangioma. The tongue has many lymphatic vessels and capillaries. Your lesion is very small fitting the capillary size. Have a dentist evaluate it for possible excision.

 

[hoss1985]

Here is another image.
I’ll try to see a dentist. Is what you said any cause for concern?

 

[honestdoc]

I don't think it is any cause for concern. As long as it does not get bigger, turn color, or become painful and or ulcerating, I wouldn't worry too much. Fortunately the spot is very small and the body could control the size at this point.

 

[hoss1985]

Thanks a lot for the reassuring comment. The spot has not changed color or become any bigger. Not tender or ulcerating. I'll see a dentist and post an update soon. Thanks again.

 

[hoss1985]

Hello Honest Doc,
I have an appointment with an oral surgeon on November 14, but yesterday, I noticed that the white bump is almost disappearing. I have attached a photo here. Any help is appreciated. Thanks in advance.

 

[honestdoc]

There is a fair chance the oral surgeon may feel it is not worth removing, but go for the consultation to cover all bases.

 

[hoss1985]

I see. So, you think because it changed the color and is going away, it’s not anything to worry about? Thanks.

 

[honestdoc]

Keep your Oral Surgery consult appointment and have his/her opinion.

 

[hoss1985]

Will do. Thanks

 

[hoss1985]

Hi Honest Doc. Just wanted to give you an update. I saw an oral surgeon and he decided to get the bump excised. The procedure was yesterday. Like you said, he thought it was an inflamed lingual tonsil. But he wanted to get it biopsied to be safe. The results should be in next week.

 

[hoss1985]

Just an update. My doctor called today, saying that the nodule was a hypertrophic lingual tonsil. So, nothing to worry about. Thanks for your advice, Honest Doc. Much appreciated.