Retrospective study of predisposing factors in recurrent aphthous stomatitis

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is common oral mucosal ulcerative disease of unknown etiology. Nevertheless, many predisposing factors have been implicated. Objective:The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate the predisposing factors of RAS patients. Method:The medical records of seventy two patients with RAS at Oral Medicine Clinic of Cipto Mangunkusumo National General Hospital from 2005-2006 were studied. Result:This study comprised 72 patients (37 males and 35 females, age ranged 16-79 years) and indicate that most of RAS were minor(75%), major(16.67%) and herpetiform(6.94%). The predisposing factors were found in haematinic deficiencies, hereditary, hormonal, trauma, physical tiredness and psychological. Conclusion:All types of RAS, hematinic deficiencies (31.94%) were the most frequent predisposing factor. Full hematologic screening of patient with RAS is recommended to identify haematinic deficiencies as one of predisposing factor of RAS so that comprehensive management of RAS can be achieved.