Recurrent aphthous stomatitis: investigation of possible etiologic factors.

OBJECTIVE To investigate the association of serum vitamin B(12), folic acid, iron, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus levels as well as family history and cigarette smoking with recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS). METHODS Thirty-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 chi(2) test and binary logistic regression analysis. RESULTS Family history was found to be the most significant predisposing factor for RAS among the investigated ones. Regarding the serum tests, only vitamin B(12) was found to have significant correlation with RAS. Patients with vitamin B(12) deficiency, positive family history, and nonsmoking status have been found to have the highest risk for having RAS. CONCLUSIONS RAS is a multifactorial disease. Positive family history, vitamin B(12) deficiency, and nonsmoking status are among the important predisposing factors.