What condition is characterized by ulcers in the mouth?

Aphthous stomatitis is characterized by the presence of painful ulcers in the mouth, particularly on the mucous membranes, such as the inside of the lips, cheeks, and the tongue. These ulcers, often referred to as canker sores, can vary in size and can cause significant discomfort, making it difficult for individuals to eat or speak. The exact cause of aphthous stomatitis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to factors such as stress, hormonal changes, certain food sensitivities, or nutritional deficiencies.

In contrast, viral stomatitis typically refers to a viral infection that causes inflammation in the mouth, which may or may not lead to ulcer formation. Oral candidiasis, commonly known as oral thrush, involves an overgrowth of Candida yeast, leading to white patches in the mouth rather than distinct ulcers. Herpes simplex can lead to painful lesions in the mouth, but these are often vesicular (blister-like) in nature rather than the distinct shallow ulcers characteristic of aphthous stomatitis. Each of these conditions presents differently, which highlights the distinct nature of aphthous stomatitis as characterized by its ulcerative presentation.