In his recent case involving a child with a black tongue, John Harrington, MD, noted that certain types of yeast and bacteria produce porphyrins that can give the tongue a black appearance.
In his recent case involving a child with a black tongue,1 John Harrington, MD, noted that certain types of yeast and bacteria produce porphyrins that can give the tongue a black appearance. To Dr Harrington's comments, I would add that this condition can also occur after ingestion of bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol). It is important to keep this in mind when obtaining a history.
- David M. Klein, MD
Boro Park Pediatric, PLLC
Brooklyn, NY
REFERENCE:
1.
Harrington JW. Making the rounds: round 3.
Consultant For Pediatricians.
2007;6:157-164.
Access practical, evidence-based guidance to support better care for our youngest patients. Join our email list for the latest clinical updates.
Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, highlights positive lebrikizumab-lbkz data for atopic dermatitis
June 25th 2025Lebrikizumab demonstrated efficacy and safety in patients with skin of color and moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis in the ADmirable trial. Trial investigator Andrew Alexis, MD, MPH, reacts.