Fissured tongue  is a benign condition characterized by deep grooves (fissures) in the dorsum of the tongue. Although these grooves may look unsettling, the condition is usually painless. Some individuals may complain of an associated burning sensation.It is a relatively common condition, with a prevalence of between 6.8% and 11% found also in children. The prevalence of the condition increases significantly with age, occurring in 40% of the population after the age of 40. Presentation
The clinical appearance is considerably varied in both the orientation, number, depth and length of the fissure pattern. There are usually multiple grooves/furrows 2–6 mm in depth present. Sometimes there is a large central furrow, with smaller fissures branching perpendicularly. Other patterns may show a mostly dorsolateral position of the fissures (i.e. sideways running grooves on the tongues upper surface). Some patients may experience burning or soreness. Associated conditions
Fissured tongue is seen in Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome (along with facial nerve paralysis and granulomatous cheilitis). It is also seen in most patients with Down syndrome, in association with geographic tongue, in patients with oral manifestations of psoriasis, and in healthy individuals. Fissured tongue is also sometimes a feature of Cowdens syndrome. Cause
The cause is unknown, but it may be partly a genetic trait. Aging and environmental factors may also contribute to the appearance. Prevalence
It is a relatively common condition, with an estimated prevalence of 6.8%–11%. Males are more commonly affected. The condition may be seen at any age, but generally affects older people more frequently.
Uterine perforation is a potential complication of any intrauterine procedure. It may be associated with injury to surrounding blood vessels or viscera such as the bladder or intestine. If not diagnosed at the time of the procedure it can occasionally result in massive hemorrhage or sepsis; however, the majority of uterine perforations are sub-clinical and safely resolve by themselves without treatment and do not cause any significant long-term damage. Risk factors include cervical stenosis during trans-cervical procedures or decreased strength of the myometrial wall as in pregnancy or menopause. See also
Uterine rupture

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