Types of Aphthous Ulcers

 

Parameters:

(1) size in diameter

(2) number

Diameter in mm	Number	Type
2 - 8 mm	1 to 6	minor
> 8 mm (up to 30 mm)	1 or 10	major
1 - 2 mm	numerous (may be > 100), with wider distribution	"herptetiform"

 

where:

• Some authors use 10 mm as the cutoff distinguishing minor from major aphthae.

• Major aphthous ulcers can heal by scarring, which is not seen in the other types.

• Herpetiform aphthous ulcers have no relation to Herpes simplex virus.

• Herpetiform ulcers may occur in "crops", with a new crop appearing before a previous crop has completely resolved.