Otolaryngology: Open Access

Abstracto

Surgical Induction of Burning Mouth Syndrome: Hemicolectomy and Hyperalimentation

Jasmine M Campbell, Chevelle Winchester and Alan R Hirsch

Background: Burning Mouth Syndrome (BMS) is a chronic, idiopathic condition characterized by changes in sensory perceptions in the tongue and other oral sites, despite the normal clinical appearance of the oral mucosa. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) amongst other vitamin B complex deficiencies have been associated with BMS. While vitamin deficiencies have been discussed as a secondary cause for BMS, surgically induced BMS associated thiamine deficiency has not up to this point been described.

Methods: A case study looked at an elderly female who presented with a two year history of BMS pain, two weeks following a hemicolectomy and hyperalimentation. Myriad abnormalities on the neurological examination as well as decreased serum thiamine level was found.

Conclusion: Onset of BMS symptoms after abdominal surgery or hyperalimentation warrants further exploration.