Final answer:
In scarlet fever, the tongue appears as a 'strawberry tongue' which is red and bumpy, occurring due to the production of erythrogenic toxin by group A streptococci, and is associated with other symptoms like fever, sore throat, and skin rash.
Step-by-step explanation:
With scarlet fever, the tongue typically presents a characteristic appearance known as strawberry tongue. This condition consists of a red rash on the tongue,
which is brought about by certain strains of group A streptococci that produce erythrogenic toxin causing inflammation and redness. Initially, the tongue may have a white coating with red swollen bumps (papillae), resulting in the "strawberry" appearance as the coating sheds and leaves a bright red surface.
The development of scarlet fever, including symptoms like high fever, sore throat, and the distinctive rash on the skin and tongue, is a result of toxins released by the bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes).
Along with the distinctive strawberry tongue, the patient might also experience petechiae and swollen lymph nodes in more severe cases, which can progress to conditions such as streptococcal toxic shock syndrome (STSS) if not treated promptly.