Aphthous ulcers are very common, affecting 20% of the population. An aphthous ulcer is typically a recurrent round or oval sore inside the mouth on an area where the skin is not tightly bound to the underlying bone, such as on the inside of the lips and cheeks or underneath the tongue. It can also appear on genital sites.
Triggers include:
- Emotional stress
- Mechanical trauma
- Nutritional deficiency
Other diagnoses to consider:
- Herpes simplex
- Gastro-intestinal disorders
- Lupus
Clinical features
It begins as an elevated spot surrounded by a red halo that ulcerate. A greyish membrane covers the painful ulcer. They heal spontaneously within 10 days.
What is the treatment for aphthous ulcer?
- Anti-bacterial mouthwash
- Topical corticosteroids
- Oral Systemic medication
