Aphthous Ulcers Overview

Aphthous Ulcers

• Aphthous Ulcers: are small, painful sores that occur inside the mouth
• Types of Aphthous Ulcers: Four types: Minor, Major, Herpetiform, and Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers
• Minor Aphthous Ulcers: Are the most common type
  • Occur on the movable mucosa (inside of the cheeks, lips, gums, and under the tongue)
  • Usually heal on their own within 7-10 days
• Major Aphthous Ulcers: Are less common than minor aphthous ulcers.
  • Occur on the movable mucosa or fixed mucosa (roof of the mouth or back of the throat).
  • Are deeper and more painful than minor ulcers. Healed ulcers often leave visible scars
  • May take several weeks to heal completely
• Herpetiform Aphthous Ulcers: Are the least common type
  • Are tiny ulcers (1-2mm) and often asymptomatic
  • Resemble ulcers caused by herpes simplex virus because they clump together in groups
  • Occur on the movable or fixed mucosa
• Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers: Are also known as "canker sores"
  • Can affect people of any age, but are more common in women than men
  • Have many precipitating factors, such as trauma, certain foods, menstruation, vitamin deficiencies, systemic diseases, tobacco cessation, medications, and stress
  • May be caused by a potential genetic predisposition and are often seen in families
  • Immunologic pathogenesis: T-cytotoxic cells are responsible for ulceration
  • Often have a prodromal period of 1-2 days with burning or tingling sensation

Aphthous Ulcers

• Aphthous ulcers are common, painful sores that appear in the mouth.

• There are four main types of aphthous ulcers: minor, major, herpetiform, and recurrent aphthous ulcers.

Minor Aphthous Ulcers

• Minor aphthous ulcers are the most common type.
• They occur on the movable mucosa of the mouth.
• They are usually less than 1cm in size.
• They heal within 7-10 days without scarring.

Major Aphthous Ulcers

• Major aphthous ulcers are less common than minor aphthous ulcers.
• They are deeper and more painful than minor aphthous ulcers.
• They are often located on the posterior mucosa, but can also occur on the anterior mucosa.
• They can take several weeks to heal and may leave scars.

Herpetiform Aphthous Ulcers

• Herpetiform aphthous ulcers are the least common type.
• They are very small, typically 1-2mm in size.
• They occur in clusters, resembling herpes simplex virus lesions.
• They are usually asymptomatic.
• They are thought to be caused by the herpes simplex virus.

Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers

• Recurrent aphthous ulcers, also known as "canker sores," are a chronic condition.
• They occur repeatedly in the same location.
• They are often associated with pre-disposing factors: trauma, certain foods, menstruation, vitamin deficiencies, systemic diseases, smoking cessation, medications and stress.
• They are thought to be caused by an immune response.

Factors

• Both genetics and immunologic factors play a role in the development of aphthous ulcers.
• The exact cause of aphthous ulcers is unknown.

Treatment

• There is no cure for aphthous ulcers.
• Treatment focuses on relieving pain and promoting healing.
• Topical medications, such as corticosteroid creams or gels, can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
• Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also be helpful.
• In some cases, a doctor may prescribe a systemic medication, such as a corticosteroid or an immunosuppressant, to help control recurrent aphthous ulcers.

This quiz covers the types of aphthous ulcers, including minor, major, herpetiform, and recurrent varieties. Learn about their characteristics, locations, and healing times. Test your knowledge on this common oral health issue!