What is Perleche?
Perleche is the inflammation of the sides of the lips (or the corners of the mouth) following a fungal or a bacterial infection. It is also known as angular stomatitis, angular cheilitis and cheilosis. This problem manifests in the cracking of the corners of the mouth where cuts or ulcers may form. In severe cases of perleche, these cuts can bleed whenever the mouth is opened. Perleche can also cause some swelling or a red rash that can spread in the areas near the sides of the mouth. Perleche is not dangerous or contagious. However, because of its painful symptoms, it can cause a lot of discomfort in eating, speaking or laughing. Its unsightly look can also be a big cause of embarrassment to many people.
Sometimes referred to as cheilosis, or angular stomatitis, perleche is a series of lesions or cracks in the corners of the mouth. Because of the position of the cracks, perleche can be a source of constant pain, with the discomfort enhanced when attempting to eat or drink, or even carry on a conversation. Left untreated, perleche can progress to a point that the cracks or lesions begin to bleed, and may even form into infected ulcers. As with many physical ailments, perleche is often associated with a lack of proper nutrition. Specifically, perleche may develop if the body is not receiving a reasonable amount of riboflavin or iron on a daily basis. Persons who do not eat a balanced diet each day are much more likely to develop perleche, and also have a more difficult time recovering from the condition. Perleche may also occur as a reaction to an allergy or even a medication. Often, identifying the irritant that is causing the outbreak can reverse the condition. Simple allergy tests wil
