<gastroenterology> A type of benign mouth ulcer often caused by injury to the mucosal lining of the oral cavity, viral infection or vitamin deficiency. ... (27 Sep 1997) ... Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/local/20973
a small painful ulcer in the mouth, usually remaining for five to seven days and healing without scarring; seen in recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Found on http://www.encyclo.co.uk/local/21001
Aphthous ulcer: A small sensitive painful ulcer crater in the lining of the mouth. Commonly called a canker sore. Aphthous ulcers are one of the most common problems that occur in the mouth. About 20% of the population (1 in 5 people) have aphthous ulcers at any given time. Aphthous ulcers typically last for 10-14 days and they heal without leaving... Found on http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=2316