Inflammation of the lining of the mouth

Causes

• Nutritional deficiency, eg. vitamin A

• Infections:

- Spirochetes
- Bacilli
- Candida
- Measles virus
- Herpes simplex virus

Clinical features

• Inflammation of the tongue and lining of mouth - tongue is red, raw and painful
• Ulcers on the gum, palate, lips
• Thrush (babies and HIV/debilitated patients)
• Swelling and bleeding of gums

Differential diagnosis

• Allergic reactions
• Lead poisoning
• Lichen planus
• Pemphigus
• Erythema multiforme

Investigations

Swab the mouth for microscopy, C&S of bacteria and fungi
Blood: for Rapid Plasma Reagin (RPR) test, HIV serology

Management
HC2

Wash mouth with salt solution

- dissolve 5mL spoonful of salt in a cup of warm water
or hydrogen peroxide solution 6%
- add 15mL to a cup (200mL) of warm water

Repeat this mouthwash 3 times daily
Apply gentian violet solution 0.5% every 8 hours
Continue treatment until healing takes place
Treat cause if known