Chronic aphthae is a medical condition characterized by recurrent and painful ulcers in the mouth. The spelling of this word can be explained through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription, which is /krɑːnɪk æfθiː/. The "ch" sound is represented by the "c," while the "sh" sound is represented by the "s" in "aphthae." The "a" sound in both "chronic" and "aphthae" is a long vowel represented by the symbol "ɑː." The last syllable "-thae" is pronounced as "θiː," with the symbol "θ" indicating the unvoiced dental fricative sound.
Chronic aphthae, also known as recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) or canker sores, is a recurrent inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of painful ulcers or sores in the oral mucosa. It is considered a common condition affecting a significant portion of the population, specifically adolescents and young adults.
The ulcers associated with chronic aphthae typically appear as round or oval-shaped open sores with a white or yellowish color surrounded by a reddish halo. The lesions usually develop on the non-keratinized oral mucosa, such as the inner lining of the mouth, lips, cheeks, tongue, and throat.
The exact cause of chronic aphthae is not fully understood, although it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. Factors such as stress, trauma to the oral cavity, certain foods (such as citrus and acidic fruits), hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and viral or bacterial infections may trigger or exacerbate the condition.
The symptoms of chronic aphthae can vary in intensity, with some individuals experiencing mild discomfort while others may suffer from severe pain and difficulties in eating, drinking, or speaking. The ulcers typically heal within 10-14 days without scarring. However, new lesions may appear intermittently, leading to a cycle of recurrent episodes.
Treatment for chronic aphthae aims to alleviate pain, promote ulcer healing, and prevent future outbreaks. It usually involves a combination of topical medications (such as corticosteroids, anesthetics, or antimicrobial agents), oral rinses, pain relievers, and lifestyle modifications. In severe cases, systemic medications may be prescribed. Additionally, managing stress, maintaining good oral hygiene, and avoiding trigger factors can also help reduce the frequency and severity of
Sprue(2).
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "chronic aphthae" can be broken down into two parts: "chronic" and "aphthae".
The term "chronic" has its roots in the Greek word "khronos", meaning time. It is often used to describe a long-lasting or persistent condition.
The word "aphthae" comes from the Greek word "aphtḗ", which means "ulcer". Aphthae refers to small, shallow ulcers that typically appear on the mucous membranes of the mouth, tongue, or throat.
Therefore, "chronic aphthae" refers to a persistent or long-lasting condition characterized by the presence of recurrent, small ulcers in the mouth.