Burning Mouth Syndrome From Statin Use: A Case Study

Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed medications in America. They are known for their ability to decrease cholesterol. Although generally well-tolerated, they are known to cause a variety of moderate side effects. Herein, we report on a rarely reported side effect of statin-induced neuropathy. A 35-year-old male with type IV hyperlipoproteinemia presented to the neurology outpatient clinic with complaints of tongue burning after taking a statin for just seven days. After being placed on Atorvastatin 20 mg daily, he developed dysesthesias in his tongue and mouth. No other prescribed or over-the-counter medications were being taken at the time. A detailed neurological examination was conducted and was found to be normal, besides dysesthesias of the tongue. Atorvastatin was discontinued, and the burning resolved within three weeks. Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a disorder that causes painful dysesthesias of the tongue thought to be caused by small fiber neuropathy. Small fiber neuropathy affects sensory and autonomic small fibers, resulting in both sensory and autonomic symptoms. Sensory symptoms can include burning, tingling, and stabbing discomfort. Though there are many causes of small fiber neuropathy, this case is rare in the fact that it only involves the patient's tongue.