Angular
Cheilitis
Also known as
perleche, cheilosis or angular stomatitis,
angular cheilitis is an inflammatory condition
affecting the corners of the mouth that is
characterised by deep cracks or lesions.
The exact cause of angular cheilitis isn't well
known but it is believed to be due to vitamin B
or iron deficiency, fungal or bacterial
infection. Exacerbating factors include ill
fitting dentures and dry, cold, winter
conditions, weakened immune system, poor
nutrition. It is seen most frequently in the
elderly and young children.
Angular
cheilitis symptoms:
Angular cheilitis
affects the corners of the mouth, symptoms
include;
-
Painful
cracks/fissures in the corner of the mouth.
-
Blisters/sores
which may bleed or ooze & then crust over.
-
Redness,
swelling and inflammation.
Angular
cheilitis treatment:
If you suspect you
have angular cheilitis you should seek the
advice of your doctor, dentist or dermatologist.
Treatment of
angular cheilitis depends on the cause but may
include;
-
Nutritional:
Vitamin and mineral supplements may be
recommended. Ensure you eat a well balanced
diet with plenty of fresh fruits and
vegetables.
-
Fungal:
Topical anti-fungal cream or topical
antifungal and a 1% topical steroid cream.
-
Bacterial:
Topical anti-bacterial cream.
Proper oral
hygiene is of great importance too. Proper care
should be taken when cleaning teeth.
Wear a protective
lip balm or Vaseline to prevent the lips drying
out.
Ensure that
dentures are properly fitting and well cleaned
and maintained.
|
Also see:
Angular Cheilitis,
Brittle Nails,
Chapped Lips,
Cherry
Angiomas,
Cracked Heels,
Dry Skin,
Eczema,
Folliculitis,
Freckles,
Get Rid of a Hickey,
Ingrown
Hairs,
Itchy Scalp,
Leukonychia,
Liver
Spots,
Nail Care,
Oily Skin,
Psoriasis,
Razor Burn,
Rosacea,
Skin Abscess,
Skin Tags,
Warts |
Please note:
The medical
articles on this site have not been written by a
doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a
doctor visit. The articles are provided for
informative purposes only.
Always seek
immediate medical advice for any problems.
While great
care has been made in the creation of these articles, we
cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages.
If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical
advice.
