Evaluation of Topical Probiotic Gel Versus Triamcinolone in Minor Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers

Evaluation of Topical Probiotic Gel Versus Triamcinolone in Minor Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers: A Randomized Controlled Trial Incorporating Salivary microRNA-146a as a Novel Biomarker of Healing

This study looks at a new way to treat minor recurrent aphthous ulcers. These ulcers are painful, round or oval sores that show up on the soft, non-chewing surfaces of the mouth (like the inside of the cheeks or lips). While they are not dangerous, they cause severe pain and make eating, talking, and swallowing difficult.

The current standard treatment is usually a topical steroid gel called triamcinolone acetonide, which helps reduce pain and swelling but can have limitations. This clinical trial is testing whether a novel topical probiotic gel can work just as well as the steroid gel to speed up healing, lower pain, and reduce local inflammation.

Additionally, the study will measure a molecule found in saliva called microRNA-146a. This molecule acts as a natural biological marker that tracks how well the mouth tissue is healing from inflammation

Inclusion Criteria:

• Both genders
• Adults ≥18 years diagnosed with minor recurrent aphthous ulcer based on clinical examination (Parra-Moreno et al., 2023).
• The definitive diagnostic criteria for Minor Recurrent Aphthous Ulcers (Minor RAU/RAS) rely heavily on distinct clinical features and standard medical histories. Because there is no single definitive lab test or histopathological standard, diagnosis is made primarily by clinical evaluation (Baccaglini et al., 2013; Akintoye and Greenberg, 2014)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with major aphthous ulcer or traumatic ulcers, patients took steroids in last 6 months, vulnerable groups as prisoners, mentally disabled, pregnant orlactating women (El-Haddad et al., 2014).