Recurring white ring on my tongue. What is it?

I have a small white ring on the left lateral area of my tongue. It usually starts off very small about the size of a pea and then grows to the size of about a quarter over about a week before going away. Only to come back in 2-4 weeks. There is usually very very mild pain or it is completely painless. The rest of my mouth has no apparent abnormalities.  I was just wondering if this sounded like herpes or something else.

I am a gay male and have performed unprotected oral sex.

[gracefromHHP]

it's not likely this is herpes showing up on your tongue.

geographic tongue is pretty common and is non-std related. google it to see if that sounds like what you have.

otherwise follow up with your provider for better answers.

grace

[Helpmeout13]

Thank you for replying Grace.

Any other opinions would be appreciated.

[ggutley]

I get the same thing!  Did you ever figure out what it was?  I'm baffled and so far doctors have not been helpful.