Angular stomatitis

Angular stomatitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the corners of the mouth. This condition, also known as cheilosis or perleche, is often associated with a variety of factors including nutritional deficiencies, infections, and systemic diseases.

Causes

The primary causes of angular stomatitis can be broadly categorized into nutritional deficiencies, infections, and systemic diseases.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Angular stomatitis is often associated with deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), and iron. These deficiencies can result from a poor diet, malabsorption disorders, or alcoholism.

Infections

Infections, particularly those caused by the fungus Candida albicans or the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, can also lead to angular stomatitis. These organisms can take advantage of the moist, warm environment at the corners of the mouth, leading to infection and inflammation.

Systemic Diseases

Certain systemic diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, HIV/AIDS, and Crohn's disease, can predispose individuals to angular stomatitis. These conditions can impair the immune system, making the individual more susceptible to infections that can cause angular stomatitis.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of angular stomatitis is inflammation at the corners of the mouth. This can manifest as redness, swelling, cracking, and pain. In severe cases, the inflammation can spread to the lips and surrounding skin.

Treatment

Treatment of angular stomatitis primarily involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve supplementation of deficient vitamins and minerals, treatment of infections with antifungal or antibacterial medications, or management of systemic diseases. In addition, maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent recurrence of the condition.

See Also

• Cheilosis
• Stomatitis
• Candidiasis
• Vitamin deficiency

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