Stomatitis: Oral Mucosal Inflammation and Ulceration

Definition

Stomatitis = inflammation of the oral mucosa, often with ulceration. Affects lips, cheeks, tongue, gums, palate, floor of mouth.

Common Types

• Aphthous stomatitis (canker sores): Recurrent, round, yellow-white ulcers with red halo; idiopathic.
• Herpetic stomatitis: HSV-1 primary infection; vesicles → ulcers; fever, gingivostomatitis.
• Angular stomatitis (perlèche): Fissures at mouth corners; iron/B vitamin deficiency, Candida.
• Denture stomatitis: Candida under ill-fitting denture.
• Chemoradiation-induced: Mucositis from cancer therapy.

Management

• Topical anesthetics (lidocaine, benzocaine).
• Antimicrobials (antifungals, antivirals).
• Oral rinses (magic mouthwash, saline, chlorhexidine).
• Nutritional support, hydration.
• Treat underlying cause.