Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: investigation of possible etiologic factors

ObjectiveTo investigate the association of serum vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus levels as well as family history and cigarette smoking with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS).MethodsThirty-four patients with RAS and 32 control subjects were included in this controlled prospective screening study. Both groups received a questionnaire, and serum screening tests were performed. The collected data were analyzed using χ2 test and binary logistic regression analysis.ResultsFamily history was found to be the most significant predisposing factor for RAS among the investigated ones. Regarding the serum tests, only vitamin B12 was found to have significant correlation with RAS. Patients with vitamin B12 deficiency, positive family history, and nonsmoking status have been found to have the highest risk for having RAS.ConclusionsRAS is a multifactorial disease. Positive family history, vitamin B12 deficiency, and nonsmoking status are among the important predisposing factors.