Shocking Facts About Perioral Dermatitis

You can have perioral dermatitis, a kind of dermatitis, if you have a red rash around your mouth. Your skin may be dry, flaky, and irritated with itchy, burning pimples. On occasion, the rash may cover the eyes and nose. The conventional suspect is topical steroids, however in some situations chewing gum has really been the culprit!
OVERVIEW
Perioral (Periorificial) Dermatitis: What is it? How Does it Appear?
The perioral (periorificial) dermatitis rash surrounds your mouth in redness. Your skin may have papules, which are large, inflammatory pimples, and be dry, flaking, and scaly. It is only one kind of dermatitis. Perioral dermatitis resembles acne and is often misdiagnosed as such.
Perioral dermatitis is sometimes described as itching or burning. Rarely does it travel to the genitals, although it sometimes extends up to the nose and eyes.
In the term “perioral,” “peri” means “around” and “oral” means “mouth.” Literally, the phrase means “around the mouth.” “Orifical” in the term “periorificial” refers to an orifice or “an opening.” The definition of “around an opening” is periorificial. The identical state is described by the two terms.
What kinds of perioral dermatitis are there?
There is granulomatous perioral dermatitis and normal perioral dermatitis. Granulomatous is an irregular form of perioral dermatitis, not a true kind. Instead of red pimples, granulomatous dermatitis manifests as yellowish ones. Granulomatous dermatitis is more common in children than in adults.
The most typical site of perioral (periorificial) dermatitis occurrence
The rash that appears around your mouth is a clear indication that you have perioral dermatitis. It may also be used to the area around your eyes, nose, and eyelids. It may sometimes show up on your genitalia. Even less often, it may spread to the limbs, neck, and scalp.
Can rosacea develop from perioral dermatitis?
After therapy, perioral dermatitis may come back. This occurs even after a successful treatment. Many recurring occurrences may develop into rosacea, a skin disorder that leaves red papules on your nose and in the centre of your face.
To whom does perioral dermatitis pose a risk?
Women between the ages of 25 and 45 who use topical steroids, face creams, and other products are more at risk (see the Causes section). However, perioral dermatitis may also affect children and males.
Does perioral dermatitis spread easily?
No. There are no infectious forms of dermatitis. It cannot be transferred to someone else.
Perioral dermatitis—is it a fungus?
The most common reason for perioral dermatitis is an overuse of topical steroids. There are several possibilities, but the precise reason is still unknown. According to one notion, candida albicans is what causes perioral dermatitis. Yeast is a form of fungus, and Candida albicans is one of them.
Is perioral (periorificial) dermatitis a bacterial infection?
There are several ideas on the specific etiology of perioral dermatitis. According to one opinion, the kind of bacteria called follicular fusiform is to blame for this skin ailment.
SIGNIFICANCE AND CAUSES
Why does perioral dermatitis develop?
Although there are 13 potential causes of perioral dermatitis, the actual cause has not yet been identified:
- Steroids such as steroid creams for the skin and prescription steroid sprays for inhalation
- Lifestyle decisions
- Intensive face creams and moisturizers
- Toothpaste containing fluoride
- Chewing gum
- Dental restorations
Other:
- Changes in hormone levels (or oral contraceptives)
- The epidermal barrier is malfunctioning
- Immunological system issues
- Changed skin microflora
- Follicular fusiform bacteria
- Candida albicans
- Demodex
What perioral dermatitis signs and symptoms are there?
A red rash around your mouth is the main sign of perioral dermatitis. The rash might be dry , flaky or scaly. Papules, which are swollen lumps, are common. Additionally, you could get pustules (white lumps packed with fluid) or vesicles (bumps filled with clear fluid). Perioral dermatitis, which is often present around the lips, may also spread to your eyelids, eyes, and nose. Additionally, your scalp, ears, neck, limbs, and trunk may be affected.
There may be stinging or burning when the rash first appears.
Some persons who have perioral dermatitis also have conjunctivitis (pink eye). Your healthcare practitioner could suggest that you see an ophthalmologist (an eye specialist) if you have pink eye.
Can stress lead to perioral dermatitis?
Yes. Some dermatitis forms may sometimes be brought on by stress.
Perioral dermatitis: Does it hurt?
It might itch or burn at different times. For other folks, this is not the case.
What makes perioral dermatitis worse?
Perioral dermatitis causes might vary from person to person. Your issue might become worse if you keep doing the things that are causing your particular perioral dermatitis (using topical steroids, etc.).
Does perioral (periorificial) dermatitis go better or become worse with particular foods?
No known food or beverage may initiate or aggravate perioral dermatitis. Gum chewing has, however, sometimes been connected to the rash. Determine the root of your perioral dermatitis with the help of your doctor so that, if at all possible, you can prevent it from happening again.
Perioral dermatitis lasts a lifetime.
If you don’t seek treatment for perioral dermatitis, it might become permanent. The majority of cases do end up being resolved, although it may take weeks or years. If you do get treatment, your signs and rash will probably go considerably faster. However, perioral dermatitis has no recognized, reversible treatment. (It could come back.)
TESTS AND DIAGNOSIS
The method for diagnosing perioral dermatitis
Your doctor will often just need to do a visual examination to diagnose perioral dermatitis. To differentiate perioral dermatitis from other dermatitis forms including atopic dermatitis and contact dermatitis, a skin biopsy is sometimes done.
What inquiries could my doctor make to determine if I have perioral (periorificial) dermatitis?
- Is your face the only place you have a rash?
- How long has the rash been present?
- Do you apply steroids to the skin?
- Is your rash itchy?
- Does your rash burn?
- Do you suffer from any additional skin diseases or dermatitis types?
- Do you see a dermatologist?
CONTROL AND TREATMENT
What is the course of perioral dermatitis? What drugs are helpful?
You need to cease using any items that might be the source of your perioral dermatitis first. Do not do the following:
- Steroids used topically and orally. Both over-the-counter and prescription steroids fall under this category. Ask whether you may switch to a different drug if your doctor has given a steroid
- Creams for the face, such as moisturizers
- Makeup and cosmetics
- Sunscreen
- Fluoridated toothpaste (health food shops have fluoride-free toothpaste)
- Gum chewing
After you stop using a topical steroid, your perioral dermatitis can become worse. Returning to a topical steroid that is less potent than what you may be taking is advised by some physicians. Consult your healthcare practitioner about this. It can become worse before it gets better with your perioral dermatitis.
Your perioral dermatitis may be helped by a number of drugs. Unfortunately, it’s possible that it may take weeks or months for these treatments to work. Your doctor could suggest one or more of the following:
Medications administered topically on the skin:
- Gelized erythromycin
- Clindamycin cream or gel
- Metronidazole gel or cream
- Pimecrolimus
- Azelaic acid
- Sulfur preparations
- Topical tacrolimus
- Pimecrolimus
- Adapalene
- Utilizing 5-aminolevulinic acid as a photosensitizer in photodynamic treatment
- Oral antibiotics are sometimes administered. They aid in reducing inflammation
- Topical drugs are often used together with antibiotics
Medications for oral (by mouth) antibiotics:
- Tetracycline
- Doxycycline
- Minocycline
- Erythromycin used orally (for preteens and expectant mothers)
- Oral isotretinoin in a modest dosage
Is perioral dermatitis treatable?
You can get perioral dermatitis for months or even years. Long-term remissions are possible, but there is no known treatment. Sometimes the rash goes away before coming back. The same therapies that were successful initially are likely to be effective again.
Do treatments have any adverse effects or complications?
After stopping the use of a topical steroid, your rash can develop worse. That is typical. Unless your healthcare practitioner instructs you to, don’t start using it again. With time, the flare-up will subside.
Do I need to see a dermatologist?
If your rash doesn’t go away after you stop using topical steroids, you may require a dermatologist’s assistance.
How soon will my symptoms go better following treatment?
Your symptoms could take days, weeks, or even months to go away.
PREVENTION
How can I lower my chance of developing perioral (periorificial) dermatitis?
Avoid using face creams and topical steroids. As soon as you begin to experience signs of a rash around your mouth, particularly if the rash is itchy and burning, make an appointment with your doctor.
Use only mild, fragrance-free soap or a soap alternative when the rash has healed. Reusing the same products you used before the outbreak is not advised.
What drugs may I potentially take to avoid perioral dermatitis?
There are certain drugs that may induce perioral dermatitis, but none that are known to prevent it. The rash’s most probable cause is topical steroids.
What should I consume or stay away from to lower my chances of developing perioral dermatitis?
There are currently no recognized foods that may either improve or exacerbate your perioral dermatitis.
PERSPECTIVE / PROGNOSIS
What should I anticipate if I have perioral dermatitis?
Be prepared to follow a treatment plan that was agreed upon with your healthcare physician. Every treatment strategy is unique. You may need oral or topical treatments, or you may just need to quit the behavior that is producing the rash (such as stopping the use of topical steroids). However, the majority of the time a treatment plan may be discovered that successfully manages the perioral dermatitis.
Keep in mind that when you stop using topical steroids, your perioral dermatitis will grow worse before it gets better. This is anticipated and typical.
I have perioral (periorificial) dermatitis; how long will it last?
You can get perioral dermatitis for months or even years.
Is perioral dermatitis self-resolving?
This may occur. The rash and other symptoms can go away if all steroid use is stopped.
Can perioral dermatitis deteriorate further?
Yes, perioral dermatitis might worsen if you don’t adhere to your doctor’s treatment recommendations.
LIFE WITH PERIORAL DERMATITIS
How can I look after myself?
Don’t resume using steroids, face creams, or other things that may have contributed to your rash after it has healed.
Wash with warm water when you have a rash. Wait till it’s all gone before using soap.
Pay attention to the advice given by your healthcare practitioner.
When should I schedule a visit with my doctor?
As soon as you see a rash or have perioral dermatitis symptoms, consult your healthcare professional. Before the rash and/or symptoms worsen, you should get treatment.
Summary
Dermatitis may take many different forms. Some conditions have a known etiology, while others, like perioral dermatitis, don’t. When you develop a rash and are unsure of its cause, it may be frustrating. There are several additional ideas, albeit topical steroids are regarded to be the most probable culprit. To identify the likely reason, work with your healthcare physician. This will aid in making a treatment plan between you and your healthcare professional.
Treatment options for perioral dermatitis are many and efficient. Ask any questions you may have, adhere to your doctor’s recommendations, and keep in mind that your rash can grow worse before it goes better.