Suggest Treatment For Recurring Ulcers On Roof Of Mouth

Posted on Tue, 23 Jun 2015

Question: I have a recurring ulcer on the roof of my mouth, towards the back of the hard palate. It always recurs in the same spot and is painless. It first occurred 12 weeks ago and seems to recur weekly. 3 weeks ago I developed flu like symptoms after the ulcer burst and scabbed over. I have been tested for Herpes and the result was negative. Are there any other possible causes or is it more likely the test was a false negative?

Answered by Dr. Dr. BR Hudda (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Need more information, this could be Leukoplakia or fungal infection

Detailed Answer:
Hello
I appreciate your concern
Looking at your history this could be Leukoplakia or fungal infection

If you can upload a photograph, which will be handy to reach at conclusive diagnosis
Apart from a photo I would like following information to help you better
1. your age and relevant medical history like diabetes
2. Do you smoke or chew tobacco
3. Do you feel irritation or burning sensation while having food

Please revert back to me with answers I will definitely help you in best possible way

Best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E

Follow up: Dr. Dr. BR Hudda (7 hours later)

Will post photos soon.
It begins as a painless hard white spot and develops into an ulcer. The ulcer has burst twice in 12 weeks with a noticeable scab each time (herpes hallmark, I'm lead to believe)
No noticeable discomfort whilst eating or drinking.

Answered by Dr. Dr. BR Hudda (15 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Have multivitamin supplements and upload a photograph

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for your reply
Most probably this could be Leukoplakia or mouth ulcer which can be related to nutritional deficiency as well
Please upload a photograph and reply my questions I have asked in previous answer.

Try to avoid spicy food and smoking
have multivitamin supplements
Best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Neel Kudchadkar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. BR Hudda (18 hours later)

I have uploaded images to "My Reports". The ulcer is no longer apparent. I still have discoloration of the tongue and redness of the throat. The ulcer will recur though. It seems to do this quite often. I had flu like symptoms about 10days prior to the first time I noticed the ulcer. It scanned over and I didn't see it for another 10days. Since then, over the past 10 weeks it comes and goes in varying ranges of time and 3 weeks ago it swelled to its largest and burst and scabbed over and then I began feeling ill. Sore throat, headache, malaise. What are the chances of a false negative serology after an estimated 10-11 weeks from exposure? Just looking for some information, I will be going to my local doctor in a few weeks for the 16-17week serology to determine complete accuracy of herpes results.

Answered by Dr. Dr. BR Hudda (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Considerations

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for your reply
I couldn't get your photographs. Please try again. In case you are unable to upload, you can mail pictures to YYYY@YYYY with subject as "Attn: Dr. B R Hudda".

Serological tests to diagnose herpes are available with good results and low false negative results, Those serological tests are antibodies based Glycoprotein G1 and G2
Herpeselect 1 and heroes electric 2 Elisa based tests

Possibility of herpes can't be ruled out by mere your description so I would advise to discuss with your doctor for these tests

If it comes negative, you need not to worry it can be caused by other viral infection which itself is self limiting disease most of the time

Please upload a photo if you have taken
Avoid spicy food
avoid smoking or cold drinks
Have B complex with folic acid

Hope this answers your questions Please feel free to ask for follow up questions I will gladly answer you
Thanks and regards

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad