Which condition is characterized by painful oral lesions that erupt and burst?

Erythema multiforme is characterized by the presence of painful oral lesions that can erupt and burst. This condition typically manifests with targetoid lesions on the skin and may also involve mucous membranes, particularly in the mouth. The lesions can lead to erosion and ulceration, causing significant discomfort and pain.

Patients may experience a sudden onset of these lesions, often triggered by infections, medications, or other inflammatory conditions. The oral lesions in erythema multiforme are particularly notable for their painful nature, and they can make eating or drinking difficult.

In contrast, lichen planus would usually present with well-defined, lacy white lesions in the mouth rather than painful ulcers that burst. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a severe reaction that also includes mucosal involvement, but it is generally associated with systemic symptoms and a more extensive skin rash. Herpes simplex virus infection can cause painful oral vesicles, but these tend to be grouped vesicles that sometimes do burst; however, they are typically not the hallmark of oral lesions like those seen in erythema multiforme.