Introduction

Angular cheilitis occurs at the labial commissures and classically appears as a red and white fissured lesion. Is is also sometimes known as Perlèche. It is commonly bilateral in presentation, and may be associated with a loss of vertical dimension, leading to overclosure and a resulting fold at the sides of the mouth in which saliva collects. In this situation, the skin becomes macerated and fissured. Candida albicans has been implicated in its aetiology. Is is also often seen in persons undergoing radiation therapy, and may be a feature of vitamin B deficiency (ariboflavinosis).