Treatment of Cheilitis

Cheilitis, which typically presents as dryness, peeling, or cracking of the lips, may be caused by various factors such as dry environment, allergic reactions, or vitamin deficiencies. The following are some treatment options: 1. Application of antibiotic ointment: Mild cases of cheilitis can be effectively treated with topical antibiotic ointments to prevent the spread of inflammation and inhibit further progression. Metronidazole-containing medications are generally used in combination with antibiotics. 2. Local corticosteroid injections: For severe cases of cheilitis where symptoms cannot be relieved by topical medications alone, local corticosteroid injections can be administered to promote recovery of the lip mucosa from within. However, these hormone-based medications have potential side effects, so they are not typically used unless symptoms are severe. 3. Surgical excision: In advanced stages, cheilitis may undergo malignant transformation. If a patient's cheilitis is suspected of becoming cancerous, surgical excision becomes necessary. Failure to promptly remove the lesion may result in the spread of cancer throughout the body. 4. Laser therapy: Laser treatment for cheilitis works very quickly. It can directly target the affected area to eliminate inflammation. However, laser therapy may cause significant discomfort and lead to persistent lip pain.