Morsicatio Labiorum/Linguarum: Three Cases Report and a Review of the Literature

Min, Kyueng Whan; Park, Chan Kum

Abstract

Morsicatio is a condition caused by habitual chewing of the lips (labiorum), tongue (linguarum), or buccal mucosa (buccarum). Clinically, it often produces a shaggy white lesion caused by pieces of the oral mucosa torn free from the surface. The condition is generally found among people who are stressed or psychologically impaired. Most patients with this condition are not even aware of their biting habit. Clinically, morsicatio mimics hairy leukoplakia, and sometimes, it may be confused with other dermatologic diseases involving the oral cavity. It is rarely described in pathologic and dermatological textbooks. Histological features are distinctive, however, being careful to make a correct diagnosis can help one avoid providing inappropriate treatment. In this report we describe three cases of morsicatio, one that developed in the lower lip and the others that developed on the side of the tongue.