Studies on recurrent aphthae: evidence that herpes simplex is not the etiological agent, with further observations on the immune responses in herpetic infections.

Abstract

T HERE is still some uncertainty regardin, v the role of herpes simplex virus in the etiology of recurrent aphthae (canker sores). The general acceptance of the term “recurrent aphthous stomatitis ” as a synonym for recurrent aphthae has been interpreted by some as implying that an etiological relationship exists between this condition and aphthous or herpetic stomatitis. This implication has gained further support from the fact that herpetic infection is, indeed, frequently characterized by the appearance of recurrent lesions. In addition, recurrent aphthae may, at times during their course, superficially resemble the oral lesions of herpes or occur coincidentally with herpetic infection. It is, therefore, not surprising that a relationship between recurrent aphthae and herpes simplex is thought by many to exist. The few clinical and laboratory studies reported have both supported1-3 and rejected4-6 this hypothesis. In this paper are presented our cumulative clinical and laboratory experience with a series of subjects with histories of recurrent aphthae, herpetic infection, or both, along with further evidence indicating t,hat recurrent aphthae are not due to infection with the virus of herpes simplex.