Oral mucosal disease: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis

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Oral mucosal disease: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis
British Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
Article in Press, Corrected Proof - Note to users

Crispian Scully and Stephen Porter, University College London, Eastman Dental Institute, London, UK
Accepted 19 July 2007. Available online 11 September 2007.

Abstract
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS; aphthae; canker sores) is common worldwide. Characterised by multiple, recurrent, small, round, or ovoid ulcers with circumscribed margins, erythematous haloes, and yellow or grey floors, it usually presents first in childhood or adolescence.

Its aetiology and pathogenesis is not entirely clear, but there is genetic predisposition, with strong associations with interleukin genotypes, and sometimes a family history.

Diagnosis is on clinical grounds alone, and must be differentiated from other causes of recurrent ulceration, particularly Beh¡et disease Ò a systemic disorder in which aphthous-like ulcers are associated with genital ulceration, and eye disease (particularly posterior uveitis).

Management remains unsatisfactory, as topical corticosteroids and most other treatments only reduce the severity of the ulceration, but do not stop recurrence.

Keywords: Mouth ulcers; Aphthae; Autoimmune; Corticosteroids; Immunosuppressants; Behcets disease

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