Dermatology Glossary

Aphthous ulcers

Aphthous ulcers are oral ulcers of unknown etiology.

Many of these small punched out, painful, ulcers are caused by trauma, although herpes simplex or bacterial infection has been implicated in others.

Aphthous ulcers are common in a mild form. Severe aphthous ulcers are common in immune suppressed patients, and in patients receiving anti-cancer chemotherapy.

Cessation of smoking can also lead to a flare.

Treatment:

• There is no good treatment.
• Oral xylocaine suspension, or oral benzydamine can provide symptomatic relief.
• The efficacy of topical or oral tetracycline has not been confirmed.

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