From the Guidelines
Angular cheilitis treatment should prioritize keeping the area clean and dry, and applying an antifungal cream such as clotrimazole 1% or miconazole 2% to the affected corners of the mouth 2-3 times daily for 7-14 days. When considering treatment options, it's essential to address the underlying causes of angular cheilitis, such as moisture trapped in mouth corners, vitamin deficiencies, ill-fitting dentures, drooling during sleep, or immune system issues 1. Some key points to consider in the treatment of angular cheilitis include:
- Applying a low-potency hydrocortisone cream (0.5-1%) sparingly to reduce inflammation
- Using mupirocin ointment if a bacterial infection is suspected
- Keeping the area clean and dry, and avoiding licking the lips
- Applying petroleum jelly as a moisture barrier after treatment
- Considering prescription-strength medications like nystatin, ketoconazole, or fluconazole for severe or persistent cases It's also important to note that the treatment of angular cheilitis may involve a combination of these approaches, and that addressing the underlying causes of the condition is essential for preventing recurrence. In terms of specific treatment protocols, the use of a bland non-alcoholic, sodium bicarbonate containing mouthwash four to six times a day may be beneficial in preventing stomatitis, and increasing the frequency of this mouthwash up to each hour may be necessary to treat stomatitis 1. However, it's essential to prioritize the most effective and evidence-based treatment options for angular cheilitis, and to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.
From the Research
Angular Cheilitis Treatment
- The treatment of angular cheilitis (AC) can involve various options, including antifungals, alternative topical treatments, and other therapies 2.
- A study found that a combination of 1% isoconazole nitrate and 0.1% diflucortolone valerate ointment was an effective treatment for AC, due to its broad spectrum of activity against dermatophytes and bacteria, and its anti-inflammatory properties 2.
- However, further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of different treatments for AC, as the current evidence is limited 2.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Angular cheilitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including irritants, allergic contact cheilitis, and systemic conditions such as lichen planus, lupus, and atopic dermatitis 3.
- Local factors, such as moisture and fungal or bacterial infection, can also contribute to the development of AC 4.
- Nutritional deficiencies, systemic diseases, and drug-related factors can also play a role in the development of AC 5.
Clinical Features and Diagnosis
- Angular cheilitis is characterized by erythema, moist maceration, ulceration, and crusting at the corners of the mouth 4.
- A cross-sectional study found that the most common types of cheilitis were cheilitis simplex and eczematous cheilitis, herpetic cheilitis, and exfoliative and angular cheilitis 6.
- The study also found that bad habits, such as lip licking and biting, and self-reported saliva at the corners of the mouth, were associated with certain types of cheilitis, including angular cheilitis 6.