What symptom involves an inflamed, swollen, and purplish red tongue?

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The symptom characterized by an inflamed, swollen, and purplish-red tongue is known as glossitis. This condition indicates inflammation of the tongue, which can result from various factors, including nutrient deficiencies (such as iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiency), allergic reactions, irritants, or infections. The specific features of glossitis, including the distinctive change in color and texture of the tongue, serve as an important clinical sign and can also affect a person's ability to swallow or taste properly.

In contrast, canker sores are small ulcers that form in the mouth but do not typically involve changes to the color or texture of the tongue itself. Angular cheilitis is characterized by cracks and redness at the corners of the mouth, rather than the tongue, and stomatitis encompasses generalized inflammation of the oral mucosa which can affect various parts of the mouth, including the tongue, but does not specifically denote the typical appearance seen in glossitis.