Acute solitary aphthae
Pathogenesis (disease development)
The pathogenesis is not clear. The factors listed below are discussed as likely causes of acute solitary aphthae:
Etiology (Causes)
Disease-related causes
- Occurrence after infections
Other causes
Chronic recurrent aphthae
Pathogenesis (disease development)
Both the pathogenesis and etiology of chronic recurrent aphthae have not yet been elucidated. It is likely to be an immunologic vascular-mucosal reaction with various provoking or modulating factors.
The factors listed below are discussed as probable causes of chronic recurrent aphthae:
Etiology (Causes)
Biographic causes
- Genetic burden (positive in about 40% of cases).
Behavioral causes
- Nutrition
- Consumption of spicy foods and acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes.
- Micronutrient deficiency (vital substances) – vitamin B12, folic acid, iron – see Prevention with micronutrients.
- Pleasure food consumption
- Alcohol (especially consumption of spirits)
- Tobacco (smoking)
- Psycho-social situation
- Stress
- Sleep deprivation
Causes related to disease
- HIV infections
- Gastrointestinal disorders (chronic inflammatory bowel disease such as celiac disease).
- Food allergy (eg to nuts).
- Neutropenia (reduction of neutrophil granulocytes in the blood; leads to reduction of general defense).
- Hormonal factors
Other causes
- Ingredients of the toothpaste used, such as sodium lauryl sulfate.
