Geographic tongue in a two-year-old child with Down syndrome: A case report

Geographic tongue, also called benign migratory glossitis, is a benign, chronic, relapsing inflammatory condition of unknown origin characterized by erythematous depapillated areas bordered by irregular white margins on the dorsal surface of the tongue. Although it is commonly seen in adults, it is relatively rare in early childhood and infrequently reported at such a young age (2 years) in children with Down syndrome, which underscores its clinical importance. Individuals with Down syndrome exhibit various oral features due to genetic, immunological, and anatomical reasons. This case report describes an asymptomatic geographic tongue in a two-year-old male child with Down syndrome, identified during a routine dental check-up. The diagnosis was made clinically, based on the characteristic appearance and migratory nature of the lesions. Management included reassurance for the parents, maintenance of oral hygiene, and regular follow-up. This case is important because of its early presentation and highlights the need to recognize benign oral lesions in very young children with Down syndrome to prevent misdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments.