112 DISEASES OF THE TONGUE 



Infectious.— Occurs during the course of infectious dis- 

 eases (distemper, etc.). Glossitis also usually accompanies 

 the various forms of stomatitis. 



Pathology.— The mucous membrane is reddened, swollen 

 and covered with a grayish-white membranous deposit. 

 When foreign bodies are present at the point of entrance, 

 the tongue is swollen and edematous, later becoming a dark 

 bluish color. In severe cases foci of gangrene are seen. 



Symptoms.— The animal refuses food or eats very carefully; 

 the mouth is often held open; saliva, sometimes streaked with 

 blood, runs from the corners of the mouth. The swelling 

 may be so great that the tongue is protruded. Direct ex- 

 amination reveals the swollen and reddened condition of the 

 tongue and quite often foreign bodies are found imbedded in 

 it or around the free end. As a rule no general symptoms 

 are noticed except when due to infectious diseases. 



Prognosis.— The majority of cases terminate in recovery, 

 depending somewhat on the cause and extent of the injury. 

 When due to infectious diseases, the prognosis is less favor- 

 able. 



Treatment.— Dietetic— When the swelling interferes with 

 mastication, soft or liquid foods should be given (milk, beef 

 broth, etc.). 



Medical.— Antiseptic washes (boric acid 2 per cent., 

 potassium permanganate 1-250, potassium chlorate 1-100) 

 may be used several times daily. When there is severe 

 swelling, astringent solutions are also indicated (alum 1 

 per cent.). 



Surgical.— In very severe cases or where abscesses develop, 

 make deep incisions in the substance of the tongue followed 

 by the use of antiseptic solutions. 



GANGRENE OF THE TONGUE. 



Gangrenous Glossitis. 



Definition.— This is a gangrenous condition of the tongue 

 which may involve the entire free end or appear as small 

 rapidly spreading ulcers. 



