Cancer patient's tongue turned black and hairy 'after rare antibiotics reaction' The Independent Indian patient (mid 70s) with chief concern tongue is turning black. Swipe for more photos. These post inflammatory changes are more common in folks with more melanin in their skin. The underlying Pigmented Lesions of the Oral Cavity Pocket Dentistry Oral melanotic macule Stock Image C067 2476 Science Photo Library Pigmented fungiform papillae, or papillary tip melanosis Registered Dental Hygienists Tongue Discoloration New England Journal of Medicine