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Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis in Children

Painful, recurrent ulcers of the oral mucosa; an underlying systemic disease should be sought.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis in Children?

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is a clinical condition characterised by painful, recurrent ulcers in the non-keratinised oral mucosa.

It is divided into three subtypes: minor (most common, 80 percent), major (deep, healing with scar) and herpetiform.

Iron, vitamin B12, folate deficiency, coeliac disease, IBD, Behcet disease, PFAPA and immune deficiencies should be excluded; in most children it is idiopathic.

Symptoms

Painful, oval-round ulcers with red border and yellow base
Most often on the labial-buccal mucosa, lateral tongue and floor of mouth
Dimensions of 2 to 10 mm (minor), greater than 10 mm (major)
Healing within seven to fourteen days, recurrent
Eating and speaking difficulty, irritability
No fever, no lymphadenopathy (in idiopathic form)

Risk Factors

Iron, vitamin B12, folate deficiency
Coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel disease
Behcet disease (genital aphthae, eye involvement)
PFAPA syndrome (periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis, adenitis)
Stress, sleep disorder and trauma
Sodium lauryl sulphate-containing toothpaste

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • More than three episodes per year requires evaluation
  • Major aphthae and aphthae lasting longer than three weeks need biopsy
  • Aphthae accompanied by fever, growth retardation, abdominal pain mandate systemic disease search
  • Genital aphthae and eye redness suggest Behcet

Treatment Methods

01
Iron, B12, folate level testing and supplementation
02
Topical anaesthetic (benzocaine, lidocaine 2%)
03
Topical corticosteroid (triamcinolone 0.1% pomade)
04
Chlorhexidine mouthwash (0.12 to 0.2%)
05
Coeliac, IBD investigation (in clinical suspicion)
06
Colchicine, dapsone in severe cases (specialist supervision)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.