Stomatitis

Systemic Factors

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Inflammation of the oral mucosa

Introduction

Inflammation of the oral mucosa is a common condition affecting individuals of all ages. It can result from a variety of local or systemic factors, leading to discomfort, pain, and sometimes complications if left untreated. This article explores the different types of stomatitis, a term that broadly describes inflammation within the mouth.

Causes

The causes of oral mucosa inflammation can be broadly categorized into local factors, such as mechanical trauma and infections, and systemic factors, including diseases and medications that affect the entire body.

Different Types of Stomatitis

Stomatitis, the general term for an inflamed and sore mouth, can manifest in various forms depending on the underlying cause.

Aphthous Stomatitis

Also known as canker sores, aphthous stomatitis is characterized by the formation of small, painful ulcers in the mouth. Its exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be related to immune system issues, stress, or nutritional deficiencies.

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Aphthous ulcer on the oral mucosa

Herpetic Gingivostomatitis

This type of stomatitis is caused by the herpes simplex virus, leading to fever, sore gums, and small blisters inside the mouth and lips.

Lichenoid Stomatitis

Lichenoid stomatitis presents with white, lacy patches on the oral mucosa, often associated with the chronic skin condition lichen planus.

Necrotizing Stomatitis

A severe form of gum infection that can lead to tissue necrosis, necrotizing stomatitis is more common in individuals with compromised immune systems.

Nicotine Stomatitis

Caused by prolonged exposure to heat from smoking or chewing tobacco, nicotine stomatitis is characterized by a whitish appearance of the mouth's roof.

Nicotine stomatitis in a smoker

Pyostomatitis Vegetans

A rare type of inflammatory oral disease, often associated with inflammatory bowel disease, that causes pustules and erosions in the mouth.

Stomatitis Medicamentosa

Also known as drug-induced stomatitis, this condition is a reaction to medication, resulting in inflammation and sometimes ulcers in the mouth.

Stomatitis Venenata

Caused by contact with allergens, stomatitis venenata leads to inflammation of the mouth's mucous membranes.

Uremic Stomatitis

A rare disorder associated with kidney failure, uremic stomatitis causes painful ulcers and a whitish appearance on the oral mucosa.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Treatment varies based on the underlying cause but may include topical medications, oral hygiene improvements, and, in some cases, systemic drugs.

See Also

• Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology
• Oral Hygiene
• Dental Abscess

External Links

• [American Academy of Oral Medicine - Stomatitis] (https://www.aaom.com/stomatitis)
• [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Oral Health] (https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/index.html)

Resources

Latest articles - Stomatitis

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Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Stomatitis for any updates.

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