Pigmented Fungiform Papillae of the Tongue: A Single-center Experience and Review of Literature

Abstract

Background Pigmented fungiform papillae of the tongue (PFPT) is a rare benign pigmentary disorder of the tongue. In dark-skinned individuals, PFPT appears to be relatively common. However, limited data exist on PFPT in Korean patients. Objective We aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics of PFPT in Korean patients. Methods Patients diagnosed with PFPT between 1995 and 2021 at the Pusan National University Hospital were included. Clinical characteristics of PFPT, dermoscopic findings, and comorbidities were reviewed. Results A total of 19 patients diagnosed with PFPT were enrolled. The male to female ratio was approximately 1:5. The mean age at diagnosis was 41.1 years (range, 8~67 years). According to Holzwanger’s classification, Type I was the most common (89.5%). PFPT was commonly concomitant with pigmentary disorders, including mucosal melanotic macules, Laugier-Hunziker syndrome, melasma, and melanonychia (6/19, 31.6%). Preceding oral infection or inflammatory lesions were found in four patients (21.1%), and systemic diseases and infectious diseases existed in two patients (10.5%). Dermoscopic examination was performed in seven patients; pigmented border with dichotomized vessels (rose petal pattern, 71.4%) and diffuse pigmentation (cobblestone pattern, 71.4%) were common findings. Conclusion Our study shows PFPT can coexist with pigmentary disorders. Concomitant pigmentary disorder shows an association with sex hormone or susceptibility to abnormal pigmentation may be a possible cause of PFPT.