Association of Psychological Stress in Patients with Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: A Case-History-Based Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis (RAS) is a common oral mucosal condition characterized by recurrent, painful ulcerations. Although its exact etiology remains unclear, psychological stress has been frequently implicated as a potential triggering or modifying factor. Most previous studies have relied on questionnaire-based stress assessment, which may introduce subjectivity. Aim: To evaluate the association between psychological stress and recurrent aphthous stomatitis using a detailed case-history-based approach. Materials and Methods: A case?control study was conducted involving 30 subjects, including 15 clinically diagnosed RAS patients and 15 healthy controls. Psychological stress was assessed through structured case history, focusing on presence, type, and temporal relation to ulcer episodes. Data were analyzed using statistical software, and the Chi-square test was applied to determine associations. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among the RAS group, 12 (80%) patients reported psychological stress, compared to 5 (33.3%) in the control group. A statistically significant association was observed between psychological stress and RAS (χ2 = 6.65, p = 0.0098). Academic stress was the most common type (33.3%), followed by occupational and personal stress (20% each). In 66.7% of cases, stress preceded ulcer onset. Although a higher prevalence of RAS was noted in younger individuals (15-25 years), the association was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The present study demonstrates a significant association between psychological stress and recurrent aphthous stomatitis based on case-history findings. Incorporating stress evaluation into routine clinical examination may aid in comprehensive patient management and improved therapeutic outcomes.
Authors: Maheshwar Alane, Lata Kale, Smita Khandare
Language: English
Subfield: General Dentistry
Field: Dentistry
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7214779490