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Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyOral PathologyRecurrent Aphthous StomatitisNDEB AFK

A 25-year-old female presents with multiple small (1-3 mm), painful, round ulcers with erythematous halos on the non-keratinized labial mucosa recurring 4-5 times per year. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: E — Minor aphthous ulcers (minor RAS)

Minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis (minor RAS) is the most common form (80% of cases), presenting as small (<10 mm), shallow, round ulcers on non-keratinized mucosa (labial, buccal, floor of mouth, ventral tongue). They heal without scarring in 10-14 days. Major RAS produces larger (>10 mm) ulcers that may scar. Herpetiform RAS produces crops of tiny (1-2 mm) ulcers.

Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016