CHAPTER III. 

 DISEASES OF THE TONGUE. 



Examination. —This can be readily done by opening the 

 mouth (see examination of the mouth) and pulling the tongue 

 forward as far as possible with a blunt forceps or by a piece 

 of tape wrapped around the free end of the tongue, using 

 gentle traction. 



In paralysis of the tongue, it will be relaxed and protrude 

 from one side of the mouth. The examination should -be 

 made for (a) foreign bodies, splinters of bone, needles, pins, 

 etc., which often penetrate the tongue, (b) Rubber bands, 

 pieces of bone or cartilage becoming fixed around the free 

 portion of the tongue, (c) Inflammation of the tongue 

 (glossitis), (d) Necrosis of the free portion of the tongue. 

 (e) Ulcerative processes extending from the mucous mem- 

 brane of the mouth. (/) Edema of the tongue occurring 

 during the course of infectious diseases (distemper, etc.). 

 (g) Inflammation of the glands in the posterior part of the 

 tongue, (h) Deposits on the tongue. 



GLOSSITIS. 



Definition. —An inflammation of the tongue. 



Etiology.— Mechanical.— Injuries by foreign bodies (pieces 

 of bone, needles, etc.) which penetrate it; biting the tongue 

 or being bitten by other animals or insects, cats being fre- 

 quently bitten by rats or mice. 



Chemical.— Medicinal substances taken in too concentrated 

 form (carbolic acid, ammonia, etc.) or given for too long a 

 period or in too large doses will lead to severe glossitis. 



Thermic— Hot foodstuffs or the tip of the tongue touched 

 against hot objects. 



