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Condition Info
ConditionName
Angular Cheilitis (Angular Stomatitis; Perleche)
ConditionDescription
Сommon skin condition affecting the corners of your mouth. It leads to painful, cracked sores
Symptoms
Bleeding; Blisters; Cracking; Crusting; Maceration (soggy, lighter-colored skin); Redness; Swelling;
PhysicalFindings
ClinicalTests
R/O: oral cancer, HSV-1; Mouth swab to test for viruses like herpes or fungal infections; Blood: CBC, iron panel; B12;
RiskFactors
Chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD); Down syndrome, which can cause dry, drooping skin on the face; Immune system disorders, such as HIV; Low levels of B vitamins, iron or protein; Rapid weight loss; Skin wrinkles due to aging; Smoking; Stress;
IsRedFlag
IsNPLEX
Consequence
The condition often goes away about two weeks after starting treatment. Severe angular cheilitis can result in scarring or weak, thin skin if it isn’t treated.
ProgressionFromCondition
Atopic dermatitis or eczema; Dentures that don’t fit; Drooling during sleep; Fungal or yeast infections in the mouth, such as thrush; Misaligned teeth; Skin allergies; Deficiency: iron, B vitamins (B2, B12);
TreatmentOptions
Lifestyle modification: Not wearing a face mask when it is not necessary; Stop sucking on a thumb or a pacifier; Avoid contact with skin allergens and irritants; Eating a healthy diet and drinking plenty of water; Eating foods rich in protein, iron and B vitamins can clear up problems caused by a poor diet or lack of nutrients; Keep your lips moisturized; Not smoking or using tobacco products; Not licking your lips; Not using expired cosmetics; Dental work: Dentures or other mouth hardware should fit correctly; Misaligned teeth or a bite may improve with braces, retainers, or headgear;
PharmOptions
Antibiotics: Oral (by mouth) or topical (on the skin) antibiotics treat bacterial infections; Ointments or creams: Antifungal creams or topical steroids relieve swelling and pain from cracked corners of the mouth; Lip balm or petroleum jelly can keep your mouth moisturized and protected;
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