Candida Angular Cheilitis: Causes, Signs, and Treatment

Candida Angular Cheilitis is a fungal infection that affects the corners of the mouth. It can cause discomfort and impact a person's oral health. The primary impact of Candida Angular Cheilitis on health is the potential for pain and difficulty in eating and speaking. Additionally, the presence of this infection may affect an individual's self-esteem due to visible symptoms around the mouth.

What are the Symptoms of Candida Angular Cheilitis

Candida angular cheilitis is a fungal infection that primarily affects the corners of the mouth. Symptoms typically include redness, inflammation, and cracks at the corners of the lips. Patients may also experience pain, burning sensation, and sometimes, difficulty in opening the mouth due to the discomfort caused by the infection. 

In severe cases, there may be the presence of pus or discharge at the affected area. Early detection and treatment are essential to manage the symptoms and prevent the infection from worsening.

  • Cracks or splits at the corners of the mouth
  • Redness and inflammation in the affected area
  • Pain or discomfort when opening the mouth
  • Dry or scaly skin around the corners of the lips
  • Itching or burning sensation
  • Formation of crusts or sores at the corners of the mouth

Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.

Get Second Opinion

Causes of Candida Angular Cheilitis

Candida angular cheilitis is typically caused by a fungal infection, specifically by Candida albicans. Factors such as poor oral hygiene, immunodeficiency, nutritional deficiencies, and the use of certain medications can contribute to the development of this condition. Additionally, drooling, wearing ill-fitting dentures, or having a weakened immune system can also increase the risk of developing Candida angular cheilitis.

  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Denture wear
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Weakened immune system
  • Excessive drooling or lip licking
  • Smoking
  • Diabetes
  • Medications such as corticosteroids or antibiotics

Types of Candida Angular Cheilitis

Candida angular cheilitis can manifest in various forms, each presenting with distinct characteristics and symptoms. These different types of angular cheilitis caused by Candida infection may vary in severity, location, and appearance. 

Understanding these variations can help in proper diagnosis and treatment of the condition.

  • Acute Candida Angular Cheilitis: This type presents with sudden onset redness, cracking, and pain at the corners of the mouth due to Candida yeast overgrowth.
  • Chronic Candida Angular Cheilitis: Characterized by persistent inflammation, scaling, and fissures at the mouth corners, often recurring despite treatment.
  • Erosive Candida Angular Cheilitis: In this type, the skin around the mouth corners becomes eroded, painful, and prone to bleeding due to severe Candida infection.
  • Granulomatous Candida Angular Cheilitis: This type is rare and involves the formation of granulomas, small nodules, at the angles of the mouth due to a chronic Candida infection.
  • CandidaAssociated Cheilitis: Often seen in immunocompromised individuals, this type involves Candida infection contributing to cheilitis, causing discomfort and skin changes around the mouth.

Risk Factors

Candida Angular Cheilitis is a common fungal infection that affects the corners of the mouth. Several factors can increase the risk of developing this condition. Understanding these risk factors can help in prevention and management.

Risk factors for Candida Angular Cheilitis:

  • Poor oral hygiene
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Denture use
  • Weakened immune system
  • Diabetes
  • Medications like corticosteroids or antibiotics
  • Smoking
  • Agerelated factors
  • Humid environments
  • Mouth breathing

Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.

schedule apointment Schedule Your Appointment

Diagnosis of Candida Angular Cheilitis

Candida Angular Cheilitis is typically diagnosed by a healthcare provider based on a clinical examination of the affected area. The healthcare provider may also consider the patient's medical history and symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis. 

In some cases, additional tests such as swab tests or blood tests may be done to confirm the presence of Candida infection. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of Candida Angular Cheilitis.

  • Physical examination
  • Microscopic examination of skin scrapings
  • Culture and sensitivity testing
  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing

Treatment for Candida Angular Cheilitis

Candida Angular Cheilitis can be treated with various methods to help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Treatment options may include topical antifungal medications, oral antifungal medications, proper oral hygiene practices, and addressing underlying factors contributing to the condition. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to individual needs.

  • Antifungal Creams: Overthecounter or prescription antifungal creams can help clear up Candida Angular Cheilitis by targeting the fungal infection directly.
  • Topical Steroid Creams: In some cases, topical steroid creams may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with Candida Angular Cheilitis.
  • Oral Antifungal Medications: Severe or persistent cases of Candida Angular Cheilitis may require oral antifungal medications to effectively treat the infection from within.
  • Proper Oral Hygiene: Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and using an antifungal mouthwash, can help prevent and manage Candida Angular Cheilitis.
  • Dietary Changes: Avoiding sugary foods and beverages, as well as incorporating probiotics and foods rich in vitamins and minerals, can support the body's natural ability to fight off Candida infections.
Find Our Specialists
Book Doctor Appointment
Book Free Appointment

Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!

040-68334455

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Candida Angular Cheilitis?

Candida Angular Cheilitis is a fungal infection that causes redness, cracking, and soreness at the corners of the mouth.

What are the common symptoms of Candida Angular Cheilitis?

Common symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, cracking, and sometimes crusty sores at the corners of the mouth.

How is Candida Angular Cheilitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on clinical examination, but a healthcare provider may also take a swab for laboratory testing to confirm the presence of Candida fungus.

What are the risk factors for developing Candida Angular Cheilitis?

Risk factors include weakened immune system, poor oral hygiene, use of dentures, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medical conditions like diabetes.

How is Candida Angular Cheilitis treated?

Treatment typically involves antifungal medications in the form of creams or ointments applied to the affected area. In severe cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed.

Book Appointment Second Opinion WhatsApp Health Packages Find Doctors

Feeling unwell?

Request a callback!