Anatomy and Disorders of Tongue, Skin, and Nose

What is thrush?

An oral yeast infection that presents with white patches on the tongue and inner cheeks.

Who is most commonly affected by thrush?

Babies, the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, and those who have taken antibiotics or steroid asthma sprays.

What are the three layers of the skin?

Epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer.

What is phantom pain?

Feelings of pain in a limb or organ that is no longer present.

What is rhinitis?

Inflammation of the lining of the nose causing nasal congestion.

What is glossitis?

Inflammation of the tongue, which can cause swelling, color changes, and a smooth surface.

What is the role of the olfactory epithelium?

It contains cells that pick up smells and transmit them as nerve impulses to the brain.

What are the structures of the nose?

Nares, nasal cilia, nasal septum, and olfactory epithelium.

What are nasal polyps?

Noncancerous growths in the nasal passageway or sinuses caused by chronic irritation.

When are nasal polyps surgically removed?

Only if they are large enough to block the airway or cause problems.

What is referred pain?

Pain perceived at a location other than the site of the painful stimulus.

How do taste buds send stimuli to the brain?

Receptors in taste buds send stimuli through three cranial nerves to the cerebral cortex for interpretation.

What are common symptoms of rhinitis?

Rhinorrhea (runny nose), sneezing, and itching.

What conditions can cause strawberry tongue?

Scarlet fever, allergies, toxic shock syndrome, Vitamin B12 deficiency, and Kawasaki disease.

What symptoms are associated with a deviated nasal septum?

Snoring, difficulty sleeping, and nosebleeds.

What is the function of touch receptors?

They detect tactile stimuli and are located in the skin.

What are papillae on the tongue?

Tiny bumps that give the tongue its rough texture and are covered with taste buds.

What is a deviated nasal septum?

A bend in the cartilage of the septum that can block airflow.

What is strawberry tongue?

A type of glossitis characterized by a swollen, red bumpy tongue with enlarged taste buds.

What are common causes of glossitis?

Allergic reactions, infections, and injuries.