Pathology · single question
A patient with aphthous ulcers on buccal mucosa. What is the cause?
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Correct answer: D. Unknown (idiopathic/multifactorial)
RECURRENT APHTHOUS STOMATITIS (RAS / canker sores) has an UNKNOWN ETIOLOGY — it is considered IDIOPATHIC and MULTIFACTORIAL. Contributing factors include: immune dysregulation (T-cell mediated), genetic predisposition, stress, nutritional deficiencies (B12, iron, folate), trauma, and hormonal factors. It is NOT caused by a specific virus (herpes causes HSV ulcers, different), bacteria, or fungi. The etiology is truly unknown/multifactorial. D is correct.
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