ANGULAR STOMATITIS

BY
NWOGU KELECHI EMMANUEL
MAT NO: 2018/116098/REGULAR

PRESENTED TO DEPARTMENT OF NURSING SCIENCES

FACULTY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
ABIA STATE UNIVERSITY, UTURU

JUNE 2023
Concept of the Study
Definition: Angular stomatitis also known as angular cheilitis or
perlecheis a common inflammatory condition affecting the corners
of the mouth. It is characterized by redness, cracking, and soreness
in the skin at the angles where the upper and lower lips meet.
Causes of Angular Stomatitis
• Fungal infection (Candida albicans)
• Bacterial infection (Staphylococcus)
• Dry or chapped lips
• Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., iron, vitamin B12, riboflavin)
• Poor oral hygiene
• Allergies or sensitivities to certain foods or ingredients (e.g., citrus
fruits, toothpaste)
Signs and Symptoms
• Pain or soreness at the corners of the mouth
• Redness, inflammation, or swelling in the affected area
• Cracked or fissured skin at the corners of the mouth
• Dryness or scaling of the skin
• Itching or burning sensation
• Formation of crusts or scabs
• Sensitivity or discomfort while eating, drinking, or applying lip
products
• Unpleasant taste or metallic taste in the mouth
• Unpleasant odor or bad breath (halitosis).
Diagnostic Evaluation
• Physical examination for signs of inflammation, cracking or other
characteristic symptoms of angular stomatitis.
• Blood tests to ascertain the levels of specific nutrients such as
iron, Vit B12 or riboflavin).
• Patch test to distinguish allergy

Medical Management
• Vitamin supplements and balanced diet
• Antiobiotics and/or Antifungals depending on the causative
organism
NURSING MANAGEMENT
• Administer prescribed analgesics or topical ointments to relieve
pain and discomfort.
• Promote oral hygiene
• Encourage the patient to apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a
healing ointment to keep the affected area moisturized and prevent
further cracking.
• Encourage proper nutrition
• Address underlying causes
• Promote self-care
Complications
• Longstanding angular stomatitis can cause tissue atrophy and
permanent scarring or discoloration.
Prevention
• Some measures people can follow to prevent angular stomatitis
include:
• keeping the lips dry
• avoiding licking lips
• treating an underlying condition
• using lip balm
• practicing good oral hygiene
Conclusion
In conclusion, angular stomatitis is an inflammatory condition
affecting the corners of the mouth. While not usually serious, it
can cause discomfort, pain and potential complications such as
infections and impaired nutrition. Proper hygiene, topical
treatments, and addressing underlying factors are key to
managing and preventing angular stomatitis.
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