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Friday 26 April 2024

Peer Reviewed

Gastroenterology clinic

How I deal with recurrent aphthous ulceration

Katherine Ellard

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Abstract

Aphthous ulcers are very common. Most cases settle without treatment, but a small percentage of patients suffer painful recurrences that affect their quality of life. This month, Dr Ellard describes her approach to managing patients with recurrent aphthous ulceration.

Key Points

Remember

Approximately 25% of the population has experienced aphthous ulceration at some time.
Aphthous ulcers are more likely to occur in people who do not smoke. People who smoke may experience a recurrence when they cease smoking.
Some patients believe that their ulcers flare in response to stress. Some women say that flares occur in the premenstrual week.
Very rarely, recurrent aphthous ulceration is associated with another condition, such as coeliac disease, Crohn’s disease, Behçet’s disease or AIDS.