<P> Angular chielitis is normally a diagnosis made clinically . If the sore is unilateral, rather than bilateral, this suggests a local factor (e.g., trauma) or a split syphilitic papule . Angular cheilitis caused by mandibular overclosure, drooling, and other irritants is usually bilateral . </P> <P> The lesions are normally swabbed to detect if Candida or pathogenic bacterial species may be present . Persons with angular cheilitis who wear dentures often also will have their denture swabbed in addition . A complete blood count (full blood count) may be indicated, including assessment of the levels of iron, ferritin, vitamin B12 (and possibly other B vitamins), and folate . </P> <P> Angular cheilitis could be considered to be a type of cheilitis or stomatitis . Where Candida species are involved, angular cheilitis is classed as a type of oral candidiasis, specifically a primary (group I) Candida - associated lesion . This form angular cheilitis which is caused by Candida is sometimes termed "Candida - associated angular cheilitis", or less commonly, "monilial perlèche". Angular cheilitis can also be classified as acute (sudden, short - lived appearance of the condition) or chronic (lasts a long time or keeps returning), or refractory (the condition persists despite attempts to treat it). </P> <P> There are 4 aspects to the treatment of angular cheilitis . Firstly, potential reservoirs of infection inside the mouth are identified and treated . Oral candidiasis, especially denture - related stomatitis is often found to be present where there is angular cheilitis, and if it is not treated, the sores at the corners of the mouth may often recur . This involves having dentures properly fitted and disinfected . Commercial preparations are marketed for this purpose, although dentures may be left in dilute (1: 10 concentration) household bleach overnight, but only if they are entirely plastic and do not contain any metal parts, and with rinsing under clean water before use . Improved denture hygiene is often required thereafter, including not wearing the denture during sleep and cleaning it daily . For more information, see Denture - related stomatitis . </P>

Why are the corners of my mouth dry and cracked