Pemphigus mimicking aphthous stomatitis

BACKGROUND: The aim of this report is to highlight the case that pemphigus vulgaris (PV) may mimic aphthous stomatitis. Pemphigus classically causes persistent oral ulceration. METHODS AND RESULTS: We report five patients from southern Europe, who presented with recurrent oral ulceration mimicking aphthous stomatitis, but who proved by histology, immunostaining and antibodies against epithelial intercellular substance to have PV. CONCLUSION: It is advisable to assay antibodies against desmoglein 3 in patients who appear to suffer recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) with atypical ulceration for location and in adulthood.