User:Mr. Ibrahem/Aphthous stomatitis

Aphthous stomatitis, also known as canker sores, is characterized by the repeated formation of painful ulcers inside the mouth. Burning may be present at the site a day or two before they appears. The ulcers are generally less than 3 cm in diameter, have a clearly defined border, and grey base. They generally heal within 2 weeks. Fever and swollen lymph nodes are generally absent. Episodes may occur 3–6 times per year.

The cause is usually unclear. Outbreaks may be triggered by lack of sleep, emotional stress, local injury, certain foods or medications, menstruation, and nutritional deficiencies. They may occur as part of Behcet syndrome, lupus, or inflammatory bowel disease. The underlying mechanism is believed to involve a T cell-mediated immune response. It is non-contagious. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms.

There is no cure. Treatments may include benzocaine, bismuth subsalicylate, chlorhexidine, corticosteroids, or amlexanox applied to the ulcers. Occasionally the lesions may be treated with silver nitrate. Severe cases may be treated with tetracycline, colchicine, methotrexate, or corticosteroids by mouth.

About 20% of people are affected to some degree. Females are affected more often than males. The onset is often during childhood or early adulthood and becomes less common with age. The term is from αφθα meaning "ulcer" and "stomat" meaning "pertaining to the mouth".