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Oral mucosal disease: recurrent aphthous stomatitis
Crispian Scully1, Stephen Porter1
1University College London, Eastman Dental Institute, London, UK.
The British Journal of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery
|September 14, 2007
Summary
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), or canker sores, are common mouth ulcers. While their cause is unclear, genetics play a role, and current treatments only manage symptoms, not prevent recurrence.
Area of Science:
- Oral medicine
- Immunodermatology
- Genetics
Background:
- Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a prevalent oral condition characterized by recurring ulcers.
- RAS typically manifests in childhood or adolescence with distinct ulcer features.
- The exact etiology and pathogenesis of RAS remain incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of recurrent aphthous stomatitis.
- To highlight diagnostic considerations, particularly differentiation from Behçet disease.
- To discuss the limitations of current management strategies for RAS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recurrent aphthous stomatitis.
- Clinical diagnosis of RAS.
- Differential diagnosis including systemic disorders.
Main Results:
- RAS is diagnosed clinically based on ulcer characteristics.
- Genetic predisposition and interleukin genotypes are associated with RAS.
- Distinguishing RAS from Behçet disease is crucial due to systemic implications.
Conclusions:
- Management of recurrent aphthous stomatitis is challenging, with current treatments offering only symptomatic relief.
- Topical corticosteroids and other therapies do not prevent ulcer recurrence.
- Further research into the pathogenesis of RAS is needed for effective preventative strategies.
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