Migratory glossitis is a chronic relapsing-recurring inflammatory / immune-mediated condition of the oral cavity of unknown etiology. Although the tongue is the most common site of occurrence, it may affect other parts of the mouth. It may begin in childhood but also affects adults; females are twice as likely to be afflicted. Migratory glossitis is seen in approximately 1% to 2% of the population, and the condition often accompanies fissured tongue.

The lesional areas are most often asymptomatic, but some patients may complain of a burnt or raw sensation. Eating hot or spicy foods will increase these symptoms. As a result, patients tend to avoid acidic and spicy foods when the lesions are present. Migratory glossitis waxes and wanes and is present for decades.

Histopathologically, migratory glossitis is characterized by a psoriasiform mucositis, and several studies have suggested that the condition is somewhat more frequent in psoriatic patients. Atopic individuals may also have an increased prevalence of migratory glossitis.