Aphthous ulcers

Aphthous mouth ulcers, commonly referred to as canker sores, are a frequent and often recurrent oral condition characterized by painful, shallow ulcerations on the oral mucosa, including the inside of the lips, cheeks, tongue, and soft palate. These ulcers typically present as small, round or oval lesions with a white or yellowish center and a red border.

While the exact cause of aphthous ulcers is not fully understood, several factors, such as stress, minor oral trauma, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal changes, and certain food sensitivities, are believed to contribute to their development.

Aphthous ulcers are generally self-limiting, with most resolving within 1-2 weeks without scarring. However, they can cause significant discomfort, particularly during eating and speaking, prompting patients to seek relief through various over-the-counter and prescription treatments. Understanding the presentation and management of aphthous ulcers is essential for pharmacists, nurses, and clinicians involved in the care of patients with minor oral conditions.

Aphthous ulcers are classified into three main types