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Angular cheilitis

Angular cheilitis is an inflammatory condition affecting one or both corners of the mouth (labial commissures), typically presenting as erythematous, fissured, and sometimes ulcerated skin that may be painful or prone to crusting and secondary . It arises from a multifactorial , including microbial infections, nutritional deficiencies, mechanical irritation, and underlying systemic conditions. The condition is not contagious but can become if untreated, often exacerbated by factors such as , ill-fitting , or . Common symptoms include itching, burning, or tenderness at the affected sites, with potential for bleeding or weeping lesions in severe cases. is primarily clinical, based on and , though swabs may identify infectious causes like species or . Treatment targets the underlying cause: topical antifungals or antibacterials for infections, emollients or barrier creams for dryness, and correction of deficiencies (e.g., iron or vitamin B) through supplementation. In persistent cases, addressing comorbidities like or denture fit is essential to prevent recurrence. Angular cheilitis affects individuals of all ages but is more prevalent in older adults and those with edentulism or .

Clinical presentation

Signs

Angular cheilitis manifests primarily as an inflammatory condition at the labial commissures, the corners of the , where observable changes include and leading to noticeable redness and swelling. These signs typically affect both sides of the in a bilateral , though unilateral involvement can occur, resulting in . The affected areas often appear shiny and moist due to , with the skin becoming soggy and lighter in color from prolonged moisture exposure. Fissuring is a key feature, presenting as linear cracks or splits in the skin that may extend radially from the commissures and can lead to superficial bleeding if aggravated. Crusting frequently develops as dried forms over the fissures, creating yellowish or honey-colored scales that accentuate the inflamed appearance. In cases associated with candidal overgrowth, white plaques may appear adjacent to the commissures, resembling pseudomembranous patches that can be wiped away to reveal erythematous bases. In or recurrent instances, the condition may progress to ulceration or , forming shallow, painful sores at the angles of the mouth, while secondary lichenification can cause thickening and from repeated . Blisters may also form in more severe presentations, contributing to the overall disrupted integrity of the perioral . These physical alterations are often more pronounced during episodes of , highlighting the dynamic nature of the inflammatory process.

Symptoms

Patients with angular cheilitis commonly report pain, burning, or soreness at the corners of the mouth, sensations that are frequently intensified by activities such as opening the mouth wide or eating. These symptoms arise from the inflammatory process affecting the labial commissures and can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to significant irritation. In the acute phase, patients may additionally experience itching or tingling sensations in the affected areas, particularly when associated with infectious etiologies like . Such discomfort often impairs oral intake, making eating and speaking more challenging due to heightened sensitivity. In chronic cases, the acute pain and burning may subside, giving way to persistent dryness or a sensation of tightness at the mouth corners without the same level of soreness. This ongoing dryness can contribute to further irritation if not addressed, though it is generally less disruptive to daily activities than acute episodes.

Causes

Infectious causes

Infectious causes of angular cheilitis primarily involve opportunistic microbial overgrowth in the moist, creased at the oral commissures, where accumulation creates an ideal environment for pathogens. Fungal infections, particularly by Candida albicans, are the most common, accounting for a significant proportion of cases; this colonizes the area, leading to erythematous, fissured lesions with possible white plaques. C. albicans thrives due to its ability to adhere to mucosal surfaces and produce hyphae in response to environmental moisture, often exacerbated in patients with altered oral microbiomes. Bacterial infections frequently superimpose on preexisting fungal or mechanical damage, with and beta-hemolytic streptococci (such as ) being predominant isolates; these organisms contribute to purulent inflammation and crusting. Polymicrobial involvement is typical, with combinations of and staphylococci identified in 60-75% of infectious cases, as bacteria exploit breaches in the skin barrier to cause secondary . Viral etiologies are uncommon but can manifest in vulnerable populations, notably () type 1 in immunocompromised individuals, presenting with vesicular lesions that may ulcerate at the angles of the mouth. Such cases are rare outside of settings like or post-transplant , where viral reactivation occurs more readily. Key risk factors for these infections include from conditions like diabetes mellitus or , which impairs local immune defenses and allows pathogen proliferation, as well as use that disrupts commensal oral flora and favors candidal overgrowth. The accumulation that predisposes to is a mechanical factor detailed elsewhere. Ill-fitting or habits promoting moisture retention further heighten susceptibility by fostering a persistent damp milieu.

Mechanical and irritant causes

Mechanical and irritant causes of angular cheilitis primarily involve local physical trauma and chemical exposures that disrupt the skin barrier at the labial commissures, leading to , fissuring, and without primary microbial involvement. The predominant mechanism is from excessive exposure, which softens and breaks down the , creating an environment conducive to . Saliva leakage often stems from behavioral habits such as frequent lip licking, which initially aims to alleviate dryness but instead perpetuates accumulation and enzymatic degradation of the skin. , particularly during sleep or in individuals with anatomical variations like a downturned oral commissure, further contributes to this pooling, exacerbating tissue breakdown in the folds. , commonly due to temporary nasal obstruction, similarly promotes saliva retention by altering normal lip closure and drying the mucosa, prompting compensatory licking. Mechanical plays a key role in aggravating these areas, often through poorly fitted oral prostheses. Ill-fitting can cause repetitive rubbing and pressure at the corners, leading to and ulceration, especially if the appliances are overextended or unbalanced. Orthodontic appliances, such as braces or retainers that are inadequately adjusted, produce analogous frictional injury by impinging on the perioral . In edentulous patients, of vertical dimension—the reduction in following —alters facial structure, creating deep that trap and debris, thereby intensifying and irritation. Irritant contact dermatitis arises from direct chemical assault on the sensitive perioral skin by everyday products. Harsh ingredients in toothpastes, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, or certain lip balms with drying agents like , can provoke upon repeated application. Environmental irritants, including exposure to cold winds or low , desiccate the and incite habitual licking, compounding the cycle of moisture-related damage. These factors collectively impair epidermal integrity, manifesting as angular cheilitis in susceptible individuals. The persistent moisture from these mechanical and irritant processes may occasionally predispose the affected areas to secondary , though resolution typically follows addressing the underlying local trigger.

Nutritional causes

Nutritional deficiencies represent a significant for angular cheilitis, accounting for up to 25% of cases, particularly through impairments in mucosal integrity and immune function. These deficiencies often arise in vulnerable populations, including the malnourished, elderly individuals, and those with syndromes such as disease, where reduced nutrient absorption exacerbates epithelial vulnerability at the oral commissures. Iron deficiency anemia is a key nutritional factor, leading to atrophic changes in the that predispose to fissuring and inflammation at the mouth angles. This condition manifests as pale, smooth mucosal surfaces, with angular cheilitis appearing as erythematous cracks due to diminished tissue repair capacity. Such changes overlap with broader systemic anemias but are primarily driven by inadequate iron intake or absorption in this context. Deficiencies in , notably (vitamin B2), (vitamin B6), and cobalamin (), contribute to angular cheilitis by causing epithelial fragility and . deficiency disrupts cellular metabolism, resulting in maceration and pallor of the perioral mucosa, often presenting as cheilosis with angular fissures. deficiency similarly impairs epithelial cell turnover, leading to and commissural erosions, while cobalamin deficiency induces megaloblastic changes that weaken mucosal barriers, facilitating cheilitis alongside atrophic . Zinc deficiency further promotes angular cheilitis through compromised wound healing and reduced immune surveillance, resulting in persistent and acrodermatitis-like lesions. This micronutrient shortfall affects keratinocyte proliferation and collagen synthesis, heightening susceptibility to secondary irritation at the labial folds. It is particularly prevalent in settings of chronic or gastrointestinal disorders impairing uptake.

Systemic and other causes

Systemic disorders can predispose individuals to angular cheilitis through mechanisms such as impaired immune function, altered salivary composition, or mucosal dryness. Diabetes mellitus, particularly type 2, is associated with a higher prevalence of angular cheilitis due to promoting Candida overgrowth in and delayed . In patients with , angular cheilitis manifests frequently as an oral , often linked to or bacterial involvement, exacerbated by . Sjögren's syndrome contributes via severe , leading to lip cracking and secondary infections like angular cheilitis, which is one of the most common oral mucosal lesions in affected individuals. Allergic contact dermatitis represents another systemic immunological factor in angular cheilitis, where exposure to allergens triggers localized at the oral commissures. Common culprits include from jewelry or lip-contacting metals, as well as flavorings and preservatives in products like toothpastes or lip balms. These reactions often present with , fissuring, and pruritus, distinguishing them from infectious etiologies through patch testing confirmation. Certain medications induce angular cheilitis by causing mucocutaneous dryness or direct irritation. Systemic retinoids, such as used for , frequently lead to cheilitis through disruption of skin and reduced sebum production, affecting up to 90% of users. Chemotherapy agents, particularly those in combination regimens, promote angular cheilitis via mucosal toxicity, , and increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections. Other conditions contribute through anatomical or functional predispositions. In , , , and open-mouth posture increase saliva pooling at the commissures, elevating angular cheilitis incidence to approximately 25-38% in affected individuals. similarly heightens risk due to sialorrhea (excessive ) from and reduced oral control, fostering moisture retention and secondary infections. Nutritional deficiencies underlying systemic anemias may overlap here, though isolated dietary factors are addressed separately.

Diagnosis

Clinical evaluation

The clinical evaluation of angular cheilitis begins with a thorough history taking to assess the onset, duration, and pattern of recurrence of the lesions, as well as associated symptoms such as pain, burning, itching, or difficulty eating. Patients should be queried about risk factors, including the use of or orthodontic appliances that may cause mechanical irritation, inhalation of corticosteroids for , poor , dietary habits suggestive of nutritional deficiencies (e.g., low intake of iron, vitamin B, or ), and systemic conditions like diabetes mellitus or . Inquiring about recent , allergies to lip products, or exposure to irritants helps identify potential triggers. Physical examination focuses on inspection of the oral commissures, typically revealing bilateral , fissuring, , crusting, or at the angles of the , often with moisture accumulation from . The exam should evaluate for unilateral versus bilateral involvement, signs of secondary bacterial or such as , pustules, or odor, and extension to adjacent or mucosa. Associated findings, like intraoral thrush or lip dryness, are noted, along with of , , and overall nutritional status through observation of weight and integrity. Palpation may detect tenderness or induration, guiding suspicion of deeper involvement. Differential diagnosis requires distinguishing angular cheilitis from similar perioral conditions, such as herpes labialis (vesicular, unilateral, with prodrome), (chronic scaling on sun-exposed ), (contagious bacterial with honey-colored crusts), and (pruritic, related to specific exposures). Other considerations include or nutritional , based on history and exam patterns. Underlying causes should be suspected in cases with red flags, including rapid , chronic (e.g., or ), persistent or recurrent lesions unresponsive to initial care, or systemic symptoms like and glossodynia, prompting further for deficiencies or malignancies. If infection is clinically suspected, a single swab for microbial culture from the lesion may aid in identifying pathogens like or .

Classification

Angular cheilitis is primarily classified based on its , including infectious, irritant, allergic, nutritional, and multifactorial categories. Severity is graded as acute or , with acute presentations featuring sudden-onset , fissuring, and crusting that may evolve rapidly to ulceration if untreated. forms persist or recur, characterized by , , and potential scarring due to prolonged . Alternative classifications distinguish reversible (transient) cases responsive to local interventions from irreversible (persistent) ones linked to ongoing systemic issues or anatomical defects. The condition is further categorized as primary or secondary, where primary angular cheilitis arises idiopathically from local factors without systemic involvement, often resolving with targeted local therapy. Secondary forms manifest as a symptom of broader systemic diseases, such as , , or autoimmune disorders, requiring identification and management of the underlying pathology. A clinical system proposed by Ohman et al. (1986) classifies angular cheilitis based on the extent of (fissures) and :

Management

General measures

General measures for angular cheilitis focus on supportive interventions that protect the affected , reduce , and promote without targeting specific etiologies. These approaches are often the first line of care and can be sufficient for mild cases caused by or . Barrier protection plays a key role in preventing further from saliva or environmental factors. Applying , zinc oxide paste, or frequently to the corners of the creates a protective layer that shields from and aids in maintaining barrier . Hygiene practices are essential to minimize aggravation and support recovery. Gentle cleansing of the area with and mild , followed by thorough patting dry, helps remove and while preventing ; patients should also avoid lip licking to reduce accumulation and keep the region dry. For individuals wearing , adjustments to ensure proper fit are crucial to eliminate mechanical factors like folding or friction that contribute to breakdown. Consultation with a for refitting or realignment can alleviate pressure on the commissures and prevent recurrence. Patient education emphasizes lifestyle modifications to avoid exacerbating factors. Individuals are advised to steer clear of irritants such as spicy foods, acidic substances, or harsh toothpastes, which can worsen and delay healing. These supportive strategies provide symptomatic relief, but complete resolution typically requires addressing any underlying causes through targeted therapies.

Targeted therapies

Targeted therapies for angular cheilitis address the underlying , such as , nutritional deficiencies, , or systemic conditions, to promote and prevent recurrence. For cases involving candidal , which are common due to moisture accumulation and microbial overgrowth at the oral commissures, topical antifungals are the first-line intervention. Agents such as nystatin ointment or clotrimazole cream are applied two to four times daily for 7 to 14 days, effectively reducing fungal load and alleviating and fissuring. Combination products containing antifungals and low-potency corticosteroids (e.g., miconazole with 1% ) are often used for cases with significant . In severe or refractory cases, oral at 100 to 200 mg daily for 7 to 14 days may be considered, particularly when topical is insufficient. Bacterial superinfections, often involving or species, require targeted antibiotic therapy to eradicate pathogens and resolve crusting and ulceration. Topical ointment applied three times daily for 5 to 7 days is recommended for staphylococcal involvement, showing high efficacy in clearing without systemic absorption. Fusidic acid may serve as an alternative for bacterial infections, particularly staphylococcal cases, with combination use alongside antifungals if mixed is suspected. Nutritional deficiencies contribute to up to 25% of angular cheilitis cases, particularly involving iron, vitamin (such as , B6, B12, and ), or , which impair mucosal integrity and immune function. Supplementation with oral iron (e.g., 325 mg daily), (e.g., 10 mg daily or a formulation), or (e.g., 220 mg daily) is indicated following laboratory confirmation of deficiency, with symptoms often improving within weeks. Ongoing monitoring of serum levels is essential to adjust dosing and avoid overload, especially in patients with or chronic conditions. Inflammatory or allergic components, such as those from irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, benefit from low-potency topical corticosteroids to reduce edema and pruritus. 1% ointment applied twice daily for up to 7 days provides symptomatic relief without significant atrophy risk, but long-term use is avoided to prevent skin thinning and secondary . Systemic management targets predisposing conditions like diabetes mellitus or contact allergies. In diabetic patients, optimizing glycemic control through diet, exercise, and medications reduces susceptibility to infections and supports healing, as poor control correlates with higher prevalence of angular cheilitis. For , strict allergen avoidance—such as discontinuing lip products containing common sensitizers like or fragrances—is crucial, often leading to rapid improvement when combined with topical therapy. Supportive barriers, like petrolatum, may enhance these targeted approaches by protecting the area from .

Outcomes

Prognosis

Angular cheilitis generally has a favorable with prompt and appropriate , as it is a highly manageable condition that poses no inherent risk to life. Acute cases typically show improvement within the first few days and resolve completely within 1 to 2 weeks. In many instances, the condition is curable, with full healing observed in 1 to 4 weeks when or combined therapies are applied effectively. Up to 80% of cases may recur within 5 years if underlying risk factors are not addressed. However, if the underlying cause remains unaddressed, angular cheilitis can become or recurrent, leading to persistent and discomfort. Longstanding cases may result in tissue atrophy, and although rare, permanent scarring or discoloration can occur. Effective of predisposing factors, such as microbial infections or mechanical irritants, significantly improves outcomes and reduces the likelihood of recurrence. Potential complications include secondary bacterial or fungal infections, which can exacerbate symptoms and prolong if not treated. In severe or untreated cases, the may extend to or lead to chronic skin changes. Factors that worsen the prognosis include , which impairs healing and increases susceptibility to infections; poor nutritional status, contributing to delayed resolution; and patient non-compliance with regimens. Addressing these through targeted interventions, as outlined in strategies, can mitigate risks and promote better long-term outcomes.

Prevention

Maintaining good practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing the mouth, helps prevent microbial overgrowth that can contribute to angular cheilitis. Ensuring adequate nutritional intake is key to preventing deficiencies linked to the condition; a balanced diet rich in iron, (particularly ), , and protein supports mucosal integrity and immune function, while staying well-hydrated by drinking sufficient reduces dryness. For denture wearers, who are at higher risk due to potential moisture trapping, proper denture care involves daily cleaning with appropriate solutions and ensuring a good fit through routine dental check-ups to avoid and irritation. Lip protection strategies include frequent application of emollients like or , especially in dry, cold, or windy environments, to preserve the skin barrier and prevent cracking; avoiding lip-licking habits further reduces saliva-induced . Quitting is recommended to reduce and improve healing. Steering clear of known allergens and irritants, such as expired or certain products, minimizes inflammatory responses at the oral commissures. In individuals experiencing recurrent episodes, screening for systemic conditions—such as , , or ongoing nutritional deficits through blood tests and clinical evaluation—is advised to identify and manage underlying contributors.

Background

Epidemiology

Angular cheilitis is a relatively common condition, with a reported prevalence of 0.7% in the general American population. It occurs more frequently among older adults, particularly those in institutionalized settings or with denture use, where prevalence can reach up to 28% among elderly denture wearers compared to non-denture users. Studies indicate variability, with some reporting rates as high as 34% in geriatric hospital populations with dentures and overall elderly prevalence ranging from 1% to 46.66% across different cohorts. The condition shows increased prevalence in specific at-risk groups, including denture wearers, where the odds of occurrence are threefold higher than in non-wearers. , particularly deficiencies in iron, vitamin B complex, , or , is associated with higher rates, though exact prevalence figures in these populations vary and are often linked to underlying systemic issues. Similarly, immunocompromised individuals, such as those with , experience elevated incidence, ranging from 5.6% to 28.9%. There is no strong gender bias in the occurrence of angular cheilitis, though some studies report a slight predominance in females, with ratios around 60% female to 40% male in clinical samples. This may relate to behavioral factors, but evidence is inconsistent across populations. Geographic variations are minimal, with no pronounced regional differences reported; however, higher rates may occur in areas with widespread nutritional deficiencies due to socioeconomic or dietary factors.

Etymology

The term "angular cheilitis" derives from the Greek word cheilos, meaning "," combined with the -itis, denoting , specifically referring to the inflammatory condition at the angles or corners of the mouth. This nomenclature emphasizes the localized involvement of the labial commissures, distinguishing it from more generalized inflammations. Synonyms for angular cheilitis include "perlèche" (or "perleche"), "," and "cheilosis." The term "perlèche" originates from the pour lèche, meaning "to lick excessively" or "lick the edges," reflecting the historical observation of patients licking the irritated corners of their mouths due to discomfort. "" highlights the inflammatory changes extending to the adjacent , while "cheilosis" broadly encompasses lip-related inflammatory disorders. Historically, "perlèche" was first described in by J. Lemaistre as an infectious primarily affecting the mouth's corners, often linked to microbial causes like streptococci. Over the , as clinical understanding advanced, the terminology evolved to "angular cheilitis" to better capture its multifactorial , incorporating not only infectious agents but also nutritional deficiencies, mechanical irritants, and systemic factors, rather than attributing it solely to infection. This shift in naming parallels broader dermatological progress in recognizing complex, overlapping causes in oral inflammatory conditions.

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