Although the disease has an unknown
etiology, the sores of angular cheilitis may become infected by the fungus Candida albicans (thrush), or other
pathogens. Studies have linked the initial onset with nutritional deficiencies, namely
vitamin B (
Riboflavin B2
[1] and
Cyanocobalamin B12
[2]) and
iron deficiency anemia[2], which in turn may be evidence of poor diets or malnutrition (e.g.
celiac disease).
Angular cheilitis occurs frequently in the elderly population who experience a loss of vertical dimension due to loss of teeth, thus allowing for over-closure of the mouth.
Less severe cases occur when it is quite cold (such as in the winter time), and is widely known as having
chapped lips. This lesser form mostly happens to young children/teenagers.
[citation needed] The child may lick their lips in an attempt to provide a temporary moment of relief, only serving to worsen the condition.
Treatment
In mild cases in teenagers and young children (only having chapped lips), encouraging them to
not lick their lips and applying protective paraffin-based ointment (such as
Vaseline) or
lip balms to the lips is normally very effective.
For more sever angular cheilitis, depending on the cause,
antifungal and
antibiotic medication (e.g. topical
miconazole oral gel that has dual activity),
vitamins supplements, and dentures for a person without teeth can abate the symptoms.
