Serum iron, ferritin, folic acid, and vitamin B12 levels in recurrent aphthous stomatitis.

BACKGROUND

The exact aetiology of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is still unknown, but different predisposing factors, including iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiencies, have been proposed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Serum iron, ferritin, folic acid and vitamin B12 levels were investigated in 35 patients with RAS and in 26 healthy controls.

RESULTS

Vitamin B12 levels were found significantly lower in subjects with RAS than in controls. No significant differences were found in other parameters.

CONCLUSION

We concluded that vitamin B 12 deficiency may be an aetiological factor in recurrent aphthous stomatitis.