Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: Concepts in Pathogenesis

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is easily diagnosed, but identifying the causal mechanism is difficult. An auto-immune mechanism is a possible etiologic factor; many cases suggest an allergic vasculitis. Patients also may have some defect in the humoral or cellular immune mechanism. A physical or chemical factor may be responsible.Management of the more refractory cases continues to be a problem. A thorough medical evaluation and immunologic investigation should be conducted. For specific treatment, correct identification of the cause and elimination of potential contributory factors are essential.