Canker Sores: Alternative Terminology
Canker sores are medically termed recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) or recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAU). 1, 2
Accepted Medical Names
The following terms are used interchangeably in clinical practice and medical literature:
- Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) - the most formal medical designation 1, 3
- Recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAU) - emphasizes the ulcerative nature 1, 4
- Aphthous stomatitis - shortened version of the formal term 4, 3
- Aphthae - plural form referring to the individual lesions 4
- Simple or complex aphthosis - classification based on severity 1
Clinical Context
These lesions represent the most common inflammatory ulcerative condition affecting the oral mucosa in North American patients. 1 The terminology "canker sores" is the lay term, while healthcare providers should use "recurrent aphthous stomatitis" or "recurrent aphthous ulcers" in medical documentation and communication. 2, 3
The condition manifests as well-demarcated, oval or round ulcers with white or yellow pseudomembrane surrounded by an erythematous halo. 5 These ulcers are distinct from other oral lesions such as herpetic ulcers (caused by HSV infection), which are frequently confused with aphthous ulcers in clinical practice. 2