Definition
The boccarola (or angular cheilitis) is a small lesion, similar to a fissure, which forms at the corners of the mouth. This fissuring is caused by a local infection of the skin, which causes inflammation at the level of the labial commissures.
The area affected by angular cheilitis appears red and is very painful, especially during mouth opening movements. Moreover, the fabric can undergo maceration.
The boccarola appears more commonly in children, the elderly and particularly debilitated subjects.
The most common predisposing conditions are candidiasis and nutritional deficiencies (eg vitamin B2 and iron).
Possible Causes * of Boccarola
- Candida
- Celiac disease
- Pellagra
