Cold Sores
June 24, 2000
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Researchers in Israel have found a connection between the measles
virus and common painful mouth ulcers, known as recurrent aphthous
ulceration (RAU). RAU is a common condition, with some studies showing
that 20% of the world population has suffered RAU.
In the study, researchers took tissue specimens from ulcers in
the mouths of three healthy men, aged 18 to 19, who suffered minor
RAU. The men had episodes of RAU about twice a month for more than
2 years. All had received the measles vaccine.
The tissue samples of the three individuals with RAU all tested
positive for the measles virus compared to samples taken from control
subjects which did not.Researchers speculate that even in vaccinated
individuals, a symptomless measles infection could result in mouth
ulcers.
When the measles virus attacks, it reduces levels of a receptor
known as CD46, which is found on the surface of body cells. The
men with RAU had low levels of CD46 in their mouth tissue -- suggesting
a measles infection -- while the men without RAU had high levels.
Archives of Dermatology 2000;136: 801-802