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angular cheilitis

angular cheilitis (also called perlèche, cheilosis, or stomatitis) is a condition with deep cracks and splits at the corners of the mouth. if severe, the splits or cracks may bleed when the mouth is opened and a shallow ulcer or a crust may form.

possible causes of angular cheilitis include:

  • infection. fungal infections are the most common, but viral or bacterial infections can also occur.
  • nutritional deficiency of vitamin b.
  • over-closure of the mouth in someone who has been without teeth or dentures for some time.

in young children, the cracks and splits often begin with lip-licking, biting the corners of the mouth, or thumb-sucking.

treatment depends on the cause and can include lip lubrication, antifungal and antibiotic medicine, vitamins, and dentures for a person without teeth.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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