American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) Practice Exam

Glossitis specifically refers to the inflammation of the tongue. This condition can manifest in various ways, including changes in color, swelling, and texture of the tongue, leading to discomfort and alterations in taste. It can arise from numerous causes, such as nutritional deficiencies (like vitamin B12), allergic reactions, irritants, or underlying systemic conditions. Understanding glossitis is crucial for recognizing oral health issues and the potential implications they may have on overall health and nutrition.

The other options represent different but related conditions impacting oral health; for instance, infection of the gums relates to periodontal disease, swelling of the throat pertains to conditions like pharyngitis, and infection of the palate could be associated with oral infections or lesions. However, none of these specifically define glossitis, underscoring why the correct definition is focused solely on the inflammation of the tongue.