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What Causes A Prominent Glossopharyngeal Fold At The Base Of The Tongue?

Posted on Wed, 24 May 2017

Question: What can this be this be? Had it for a while, doesn't bother me and there was no change to it. It lays down but sticks up when I stick my tongue out.

Answered by Dr. Deepashree (57 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
pharyngitis glossal fold at tongue base

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for your query. As per image sent, it looks like a prominent glosso pharyngeal fold present at the base of tongue. Some times it is physiological. It is pathological only if the size increases or cause pain. Since it does not trouble u, please do not worry. If so, then please consult with your doctor and get evaluated. Hope my answers have helped you. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana

Follow up: Dr. Deepashree (5 hours later)

What do you mean by it is physiological?

Answered by Dr. Deepashree (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
normal variation in individual.

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for your query. Physiological variation means it is hypertrophy of the the glosso pharyngeal fold or the tongue papillae due to various reason like infection, allergy etc. It means it is normal variation from one individual to other. Hope my answers have helped you. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Deepashree (1 hour later)

So pathological would mean that its not normal?

Answered by Dr. Deepashree (15 hours later)

Brief Answer:
yes

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for your query. Yes pathological means it is not normal. Physiological means normal and it's variation.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng