Expert: Joel S. Teig, DMD, Diplomate ABOMS, retired - 3/2/2005

Question
Hello,

I have had a white patch on the side of my tongue recently, it can be scrapped off with a tooth brush at night and during the day, but returns if left alone for a few hours. It doesn't bleed when rubbed off, also it doesn't appear that there is anything underneath the patch, the tongue looks normal. It's about half the size of a dime, non-symetrical and is only on one side of the tongue about a 1/4 the way back from the tip. I am HIV- so I know it is not OHL, though that pops up a lot in Google. I do have a history of geographic tongue but the white spot is not part of the papillae, I also do not smoke or use tobacco, I'm also mid-twentys and brush twice a day.

I know I will ultimately need to see a dentist but what is the most likely candidates here?

Thanks,
Bob  

Answer
Bob - Being HIV + you are more prone to developing fungal infections in the mouth.  I am not saying that you do, in fact, have a fungal infection, but your description is indicative.

See your dentist as soon as possible.  Fungal infections can proliferate if left alone, especially in those with challenged immune systems.