Foliate papillae are a series of parallel, leaf-like vertical folds on the back part of the sides of the tongue. They are well developed in children and become less prominent in adults. Taste buds line the walls of the folds.
| Location | Posterior lateral margins of the tongue, just in front of the palatoglossal arch |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX) for most foliate taste buds; Chorda tympani (CN VII) for the most anterior folds |
| Blood Supply | Lingual artery |
Carry taste buds on the sides of the tongue.
The foliate papillae can look red and lumpy and are sometimes mistaken for a tumour on the side of the tongue. Because the lateral tongue is a common site for oral cancer, any persistent ulcer or firm lump here should still be examined carefully. Underlying lymphoid tissue can swell with infection (foliate papillitis).
Painful swelling of the foliate papillae, often from irritation or upper respiratory infection, which can mimic a tumour.
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