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Aphthous ulcer - Making a diagnosis
History
- There is usually a history of recurrent ulcers from childhood, although in a small number of people ulcers can first appear at a later stage.
- A family history of recurrent aphthous ulceration may help to confirm the diagnosis.
- The history should note the duration of the ulcer.
- Any ulcer that has been present for longer than 3 weeks should be considered potentially malignant and referred for biopsy.
- A full medical history should be taken to rule out other ulcerative disorders and conditions (see Differential diagnosis).
- Ask about smoking status, weight loss, change in bowel habits, joint pains, fever, or ulceration on any other body surfaces e.g. skin, genital, or eye lesions.
[Scully et al, 2003; Scully, 2006]
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