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Apthous ulcer

This is a benign ulcer that forms in the mouth. It presents as a painful, white ulcer that is surrounded by a red area.

They appear on nonkeratinised mucosa including the inner cheek, lips, base of gums, and palate.

Causes
The cause is unknown. They have been linked with the following:

Inherited predisposition

Oral injury due to aggressive tooth brushing

Stress

Iron, Folic acid, or Vitamin B12 deficiency

Food allergies

Incidence
Aphthous ulcers are a common mouth ulcer, which can occur at any age.

Symptoms
An initial burning sensation

A red spot which forms into an ulcer

1-2mm to 1cm in size (may be larger)

Forms as a single ulcer or in clusters

Painful

Red halo forms around ulcer

Prevention
Preventative measures such as Chlorhexidine mouthwashes may be useful in some patients.

Tests
Diagnosis is made on appearance. Other causes have to be ruled out. E.g. HSV, pemphigus, or pemphigoid. A biopsy may be needed.

Treatment
Healing usually occurs spontaneously.

For lesions that persist for more than 2 weeks, Tetracycline suspension and antibiotics may be given.

Oral hygiene is important inorder to prevent bacterial infection.

Complications
Secondary bacterial infection

Oral cancer (rare)