Mouth sores
Definition:
Sores or lesions within the mouth; types include mouth ulcers, cysts, firm nodules, hemorrhagic lesions, papules, vesicles, bullae, and erythematous lesions.
Considerations:
Many diseases and conditions begin with sores (lesions) on the mucus membranes of the gums and inner cheeks.
Origins of lesions can be grouped into several broad categories including infection, autoimmune diseases, mechanical irritation, bleeding disorders, and malignancy. The majority of mouth lesions result from mechanical irritation (such as biting the cheek or from braces) and minor infections (hand-foot-mouth syndrome, herpangina, herpes stomatitis, cankers).
Mouth sores may be the first sign of AIDS with lesions such as hairy leukoplakia and opportunistic infections such as oral Candida.
The herpes virus often resides in the body for years, manifesting itself as mouth sores only when another illness causes a rise in body temperature (fever) or following an injury (accidentally biting the inside of the lip or tongue).
While it is not known for sure, canker sores may not be caused by a virus, but may be the result of a temporary malfunction of the immune system. Women are more likely to get cankers than men, but anyone can get them for no apparent reason.
Common causes:
- fever blisters and cold sores caused by the herpes virus
- canker sores (common in children, especially those wearing dental braces)
- may be related to a virus or mucosal injury
- Coxsackie virus (usually accompanied by spots on the hands and feet)
- syphilis (transmitted by oral sex)
- trauma
- drugs such as chemotherapeutic agents
- drug allergies including reactions to aspirin, barbiturates, gold, penicillin (Penicillin V), phenytoin, quinine, streptomycin, or sulfonamides
Note: There may be other causes of mouth sores. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for mouth sores, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.
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