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What Causes Angular Cheilitis in Infants?

May 26, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
1. Weakened Immunity: Infants’ immune systems are not yet fully mature or developed; therefore, their immunity is relatively low. As a result, infants cannot effectively resist invasion by various pathogenic microorganisms in daily life, allowing these pathogens to proliferate and cause infection—thereby promoting the development and onset of angular cheilitis.

Angular cheilitis in infants is a very common oral condition characterized by redness, swelling, and itching around the mouth. What causes angular cheilitis in infants?

Causes of Angular Cheilitis in Infants

       1. Immune deficiency: Infants’ immune systems are immature and underdeveloped, resulting in relatively low immunity. Consequently, they are less capable of effectively resisting invasion by pathogenic microorganisms, allowing these organisms to proliferate and cause infection—ultimately leading to angular cheilitis.

　　2. Poor behavioral habits: Many infants habitually lick their lips. Frequent lip-licking can excessively irritate and damage the skin around the corners of the mouth, significantly increasing the risk of angular cheilitis.

　　3. Nutritional deficiencies: Infancy is a critical period for growth and development, requiring abundant nutrients. If caregivers fail to ensure timely supplementation of essential nutrients and energy, nutritional deficiencies may develop, predisposing the infant to angular cheilitis.

　　4. Allergic reactions: Exposure to or ingestion of allergenic substances can trigger abnormal hypersensitivity reactions in infants, potentially resulting in angular cheilitis.


5. Secondary infection: Local inflammation may lead to secondary Candida infection at the corners of the mouth, manifesting as angular cheilitis.

6. Seborrheic dermatitis: Angular cheilitis often co-occurs with seborrheic dermatitis. Therefore, infants presenting with fissured angles of the mouth should promptly consult a dermatologist. A thorough clinical evaluation—including fungal testing and other necessary examinations—should be performed to establish an accurate diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.

To prevent angular cheilitis, it is essential to correct picky eating habits and increase intake of riboflavin-rich foods—such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits—as well as foods rich in B-complex vitamins and minerals (e.g., liver, dairy products, and fresh green leafy vegetables). Adequate hydration and maintenance of good oral hygiene are also crucial. We hope this information is helpful!

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