Differential Diagnosis for Sores Around the Corners of the Mouth
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Angular cheilitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the corners of the mouth, often causing sores, redness, and discomfort. It is frequently associated with fungal infections (like candidiasis), vitamin deficiencies (such as riboflavin or vitamin B12 deficiency), or mechanical factors like drooling or poor dental hygiene.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection: HSV can cause oral herpes, leading to sores around the mouth, including the corners. These sores are typically painful and can be accompanied by other symptoms like fever and swollen lymph nodes.
- Impetigo: A highly contagious bacterial skin infection that can cause sores, blisters, or crusts around the mouth, including the corners. It's more common in children but can occur in adults as well.
- Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation from substances like certain foods, cosmetics, or metals can lead to sores and inflammation around the mouth.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Oral cancer: Although less common, sores around the mouth that do not heal can be a sign of oral cancer. It's crucial to investigate any persistent or unusual sores, especially in individuals with risk factors like tobacco use or a history of significant sun exposure.
- Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause dry mouth and lead to sores or ulcers in the mouth, including the corners. It often presents with other symptoms like dry eyes.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Melkersson-Rosenthal syndrome: A rare neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, facial paralysis or weakness (similar to Bell's palsy), swelling of the face and lips, and the development of folds and furrows in the tongue (fissured tongue). It can also cause sores around the mouth.
- Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis: These inflammatory bowel diseases can have extraintestinal manifestations, including oral lesions or sores around the mouth, though this is less common.