Correlation of pain score with ulcer size in oral aphthous ulcers using 2% curcumin gel and 0.1% triamcinolone oral paste - A parallel comparison study

Abstract

Background: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common inflammatory condition affecting the oral mucosa causing interference with mastication and speech with significant impact on quality of life. The use of topical steroids remains the mainstay as the primary therapeutic approach and they are often considered to be the first choice of treatment. Turmeric has been used in the Indian traditional medicine for centuries. Its anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities are demonstrated by the rapid healing of the ulcers. Aim: The primary aim of this study was to assess and correlate pain score with ulcer size using topical curcumin 2% gel and triamcinolone acetonide oral paste 0.12% in recurrent minor oral aphthous ulcerations. Methodology: Following convenient sampling, 60 volunteered students with oral aphthous ulcers were included to take part in this single-blinded randomised study. Randomization was done by flip coin method. Group I received Topical Curcumin oral gel 2% and Group II received Topical Triamcinolone acetonide 0.1%. Statistical Analysis: Qualitative data was expressed in percentage and quantitative in mean (SD). Independent sample t test and correlation was done. Results: The ulcer size was smaller initially and gradually increased in the next few days and the size decreased upon ulcer healing. Initially, the pain score was higher and gradually decreased as the ulcer healed. Positive correlation of ulcer size and pain score was obtained in Group I on the 1st day, 4th day and 5th day with statistical significance of P