Angular Cheilitis is an inflammation of the corners of the mouth, often bilateral (it often affects both corners of the mouth). The condition presents with redness and irritation.
Angular cheilitis is more common in the elderly due to the occlusion from an overhanging upper lip. This causes pronounced skin folds and leads to constant moistening and subsequent irritation from saliva.
Other causes can include a receding jawline and poorly fitting dentures that can lead to secondary bacterial and candida infection.
Nutritional deficiency including riboflavin, iron, vitamin B12 and zinc
A compromised immune system (e.g. if a person’s immune system is not working effectively because of diabetes or drugs used in chemotherapy to treat cancer)