A cleft tongue, also known as a bifid tongue or glossoschissis, is a condition where the tongue has a visible split or groove running lengthwise along its tip.
Understanding Cleft Tongue
Definition
- As referenced, a cleft tongue (glossoschissis) is characterized by a groove or split running lengthwise along the tip of the tongue. This split occurs due to the incomplete fusion of the distal tongue buds during fetal development.
- Essentially, instead of forming a single, smooth tip, the tongue has a noticeable division.
Cause
- Incomplete Fusion: The primary reason for a cleft tongue is the failure of the two sides of the developing tongue to fully merge during the embryonic stage.
- Associated Factors: While often an isolated occurrence, a cleft tongue has been linked to:
- Maternal diabetes, as mentioned in the reference.
Key Characteristics
- Location: The split or groove is usually located at the tip of the tongue.
- Appearance: The depth of the cleft can vary, ranging from a shallow indentation to a deep split.
- Symmetry: The division may be symmetrical or asymmetrical.
Associated Conditions
- While a cleft tongue can appear as a sole anomaly, it's also sometimes found in association with other conditions. One documented association is with maternal diabetes.
Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Tongue with a lengthwise split or groove at the tip |
| Cause | Incomplete fusion of distal tongue buds during fetal development |
| Associated With | Maternal diabetes (sometimes), though often an isolated deformity |
| Location | Usually located at the tip of the tongue |
Conclusion
A cleft tongue is a congenital condition marked by a division or split at the tip of the tongue due to incomplete developmental fusion, and it is sometimes associated with other medical conditions.
