Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

What is the treatment for median rhomboid glossitis?

1. Antifungal medication

2. Nystatin

3. Antibiotics

4. Topical steroids

The correct answer is: Nystatin

Median rhomboid glossitis is often associated with a fungal infection, specifically candidiasis, which is a type of yeast infection. This condition typically presents as a smooth, red, and less vascularized area on the central dorsum of the tongue. It can occur due to various factors, including immunosuppression, diabetes, and the presence of a dry mouth. Nystatin is an antifungal medication that specifically targets Candida species and is effective in treating oral fungal infections. When median rhomboid glossitis is identified as a fungal infection, using Nystatin is a suitable treatment approach because it helps eradicate the yeast present in the affected area, thereby alleviating symptoms and restoring normal mucosal appearance. Other options, such as antibiotics, would not be effective against a fungal infection, as they target bacteria, while topical steroids might reduce inflammation but do not treat the underlying fungal cause. Antifungal medication, in general, could include various agents, but the specific selection of Nystatin aligns with the treatment needs of median rhomboid glossitis.