Overview

• McKinnon, 41, said she and an actor friend share the diagnosis and joked that the appearance is “gross.”
• Mayo Clinic describes smooth red areas lacking papillae that can shift across the tongue, sometimes increasing sensitivity to spicy, salty or sweet foods.
• Cleveland Clinic notes many people have no symptoms and most cases require no care, though suspected fungal infections can be treated with antifungals.
• A physician quoted in later coverage outlined potential triggers and simple management, including avoiding irritants, gentle oral care, stress control and addressing vitamin or mineral deficiencies when identified.
• The revelation came during promotion for The Roses, now in theaters, and her children’s book Secrets of the Purple Pearl due Sept. 30, with no further medical updates reported.