From the Research
Isolated cheilitis requires a comprehensive assessment and management approach, prioritizing the identification and treatment of underlying causes, as outlined in the most recent study 1. The assessment of isolated cheilitis should begin with a thorough history and physical examination to identify potential causes, including:
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Irritant exposure
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Infection
- Inflammatory conditions Diagnostic workup may include:
- Patch testing for suspected allergens
- Fungal or bacterial cultures if infection is suspected
- Occasionally, biopsy for persistent cases Management starts with addressing underlying causes and implementing gentle lip care with fragrance-free emollients. First-line treatment typically includes topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone 1% or triamcinolone 0.1%, applied 2-3 times daily for 1-2 weeks, as recommended in the recent review 1. For fungal infections, antifungal agents like clotrimazole or nystatin can be used. Bacterial infections may require mupirocin or topical antibiotics. Severe or resistant cases might benefit from tacrolimus 0.1% ointment or pimecrolimus 1% cream as steroid-sparing agents, as reported in a case study 2. Patients should avoid potential irritants, including:
- Flavored lip products
- Toothpastes with sodium lauryl sulfate
- Excessive lip licking Nutritional deficiencies, particularly B vitamins, iron, and zinc, should be corrected if present, as highlighted in the study 3. Patient education about avoiding triggers and maintaining proper lip hydration is essential for preventing recurrence, as emphasized in the review 1.