International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Which medical condition is referred to as tongue tie?

1. Ankyloglossia

2. Glossitis

3. Macroglossia

4. Hypoglossia

The correct answer is: Ankyloglossia

The term "tongue tie" refers specifically to ankyloglossia, which is a condition where the thin piece of tissue (frenulum) that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual. This can limit the movement of the tongue, affecting various functions such as feeding, speaking, and oral hygiene. In infants, ankyloglossia can hinder breastfeeding, as it may prevent the baby from latching properly or moving the tongue effectively to extract milk. Glossitis is the inflammation of the tongue, often causing color changes and swelling, but it does not involve the structural restriction associated with tongue tie. Macroglossia refers to an unusually large tongue that can be a complication of several conditions, while hypoglossia denotes an underdeveloped tongue, neither of which relate directly to the functional limitations caused by ankyloglossia. Thus, the most accurate and appropriate term for "tongue tie" is indeed ankyloglossia.