Perioral dermatitis



Dermatitis perioralis is dermatitis affecting the area around the mouth (further around the eyes and on the forehead). The etiology is unclear, but is believed to be multifactorial – eg cosmetics, topical steroid treatment, UV radiation and others. It manifests as erythema, papules and papulopustules with pityriasis-like desquamation. Skin manifestations usually heal without scars. The patient feels strong itching, burning and even tension.

Drying compresses, topical antibiotic erythromycin are recommended for treatment, systemic tetracycline for more severe forms, corticosteroids are contraindicated (initially it causes relief, but after stopping the rebound phenomenon).

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