Glossal Abscess: An Unusual Presentation

Abstract

Tongue is an organ, i.e., constantly exposed to microbes and likelihood of trauma, yet does not usually show a predilection for developing an abscess. Cases of acute lingual swelling due to an abscess are unusual; hemorrhage, infarction, edema, and tumor being the commonly responsible etiologies. Herein, we report a case of glossal abscess that was chronic in nature (2 months' duration), presenting with uncharacteristic symptoms and no remission on taking antibiotics. In the absence of typical signs, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provided an invaluable and accurate diagnosis, which allowed proper treatment to be rendered.