Exploring the relationship between stress and aphthous ulcers among Dentistry college students, Anbar university: Histological investigation

Aphthous ulcers usually exhibit a breakdown in the integrity of the epithelial layer. A necrotic center with an infiltration of inflammatory cells is frequently visible in the ulcer. The study aims to establish if there is an association between stress and the frequency or intensity of recurrent aphthous ulcers (RAUs) in this particular group. Understanding the histological features of RAUs could help in developing therapies and management plans that focus on the main processes that cause RAUs to form. Oral ulcer tissue samples were collected from the individuals. Specimens were obtained by a biopsy punch technique with the use of a local anesthetic. The tissue samples were promptly treated with a suitable fixative to maintain tissue structure. Samples were fixed and then subjected to tissue processing, which involved dehydration, disinfection, and embedding in paraffin wax. Tissue sections were thinly sliced using a microtome and placed on glass slides. The slides underwent staining to improve the visibility of the cellular structure. Microscopy was conducted using a light microscope. Examination of tissue samples from participants with RAUs showed numerous important characteristics. Under a microscope, the epithelium was damaged and the top layer had been lost. There were also lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils in the inflammatory infiltrate.