Consultant for Pediatricians, Consultant for Pediatricians Vol 6 No 7, Volume 6, Issue 7
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
