Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What are the red spots on the tongue indicative of?

1. Allergic reaction

2. Erythema multiforme

3. Oral thrush

4. Geographic tongue

The correct answer is: Erythema multiforme

The presence of red spots on the tongue can be indicative of erythema multiforme, which is an acute condition often associated with hypersensitivity reactions. This condition typically presents with distinctive target lesions, and while the red spots can be a form of mucosal involvement, they represent a broader systemic response. In erythema multiforme, there is often mucosal inflammation and erosions, which can manifest as red spots on the tongue due to the involvement of the oral mucosa. Additional conditions like allergic reactions might present with various signs, including swelling or itchiness, but they don't specifically cause the characteristic red spots in the same way. Oral thrush typically manifests as white lesions rather than red spots, indicating a fungal infection. Geographic tongue, though it can cause loss of papillae and create red patches, usually has a more patterned appearance and is not typically referred to as red spots in a diagnostic context.