Cheilitis?

[HImom]

I was diagnosed with Chelitis earlier this year.  I was able to clear it up with Desonide ointment.  I am having another bout with it.  My lips are very sore and peeling.  I have cracks in the side of my mouth and the whole area around my mouth is very red, itchy and sore.  My dermatologist has given me Protopic and 2 steriod shots.  This has not helped at all.  My family practitioner is having me try Metrogel and Triamcinolone Acetonide.  These are also not working.  I am not using any new products or have not eaten anything out of the ordinary like Mangos or something that would cause a reaction.  Is it possible that this is not Cheilitis?  I am waiting for another referal to a Dermatologist to go thru my insurance.  Any suggestions until I can in to see one?  I am just miserable and embarrassed to go out with the way I look.

[HImom]

Thanks for the advice it seems to be working.  My family DR has also given me Diflucan.  Hopefully in a few days it will all be resolved.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

The only thing I can think of that wouldn't respond to all the steroids you've been using is a yeast infection of the lips.  While you're waiting for the dermatologist, I suggest you apply nothing but 1% clotrimazole cream (no Rx needed) twice a day.  Your doctor will be able to tell between yeast (if any), irritation or allergy (which is quite rare.)  I see no role for steroid shots, regardless of the cause.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff