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Psychological profiles in patients with recurrent aphthous ulcers
Mahmoud K Al-Omiri1, J Karasneh, E Lynch
1Department of Prosthodontics, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan. alomirim@yahoo.co.uk
International Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
|January 14, 2012
Summary
Anxiety, not personality traits, is linked to recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAUs). This study found RAU patients experienced higher anxiety than controls, but psychological profiles were otherwise similar, suggesting stress triggers these ulcers.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Dermatology
- Medical Psychology
Background:
- Recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAUs) are common oral lesions.
- The psychological factors contributing to RAUs require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the psychological profiles of patients with recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAUs).
- To determine the relationship between psychological traits and RAUs.
Main Methods:
- 50 RAU patients and 50 age/gender-matched controls were recruited.
- Psychological assessments included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD) and NEO-FFI.
- Data were analyzed to compare patient and control psychological profiles.
Main Results:
- RAU patients reported higher anxiety levels than controls.
- No significant differences were found in depression scores or NEO-FFI personality traits between groups.
- Ulcer characteristics (pain, number, duration, frequency) did not correlate with psychological scores.
Conclusions:
- Anxiety and stressful conditions, rather than stable personality traits, are associated with RAUs.
- Psychological profiles of RAU patients and controls are generally similar.
- Stress management may be beneficial for managing recurrent aphthous ulcers.
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