Potential Association Between Vaping and Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis: A Case Series

Cureus. 2024 Sep 26;16(9):e70238. doi: 10.7759/cureus.70238. eCollection 2024 Sep.

Abstract

Since their invention, e-cigarettes have gained significant popularity. However, they are relatively new, and researchers are still striving to understand the long-term and comprehensive effects of vaping on the body. The impact of vaping on the oral cavity, in particular, remains underexplored. This case series aims to address this gap by examining patients with a history of vaping who presented with aphthous ulcers. In this case series, we describe three adults aged 30 to 45 years who came in with the chief complaint of ulcers on the oral mucosa. All patients were regular or social vapers. Notably, their lesions resolved with little to no intervention. This observation prompts further exploration into vaping as a potential etiological factor for recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS).

Keywords: acute aphthous stomatitis; case series; e-cigarettes; e-smoking; electronic cigarettes; health risks of e-cigarettes and vaping; oral mucosa lesions; vaping.

Publication types

  • Case Reports