Mupirocin for angular cheilitis: what to know

Angular cheilitis causes splits, redness, soreness, or crusting at one or both mouth corners. Saliva collecting in the crease can soften the skin and allow irritation or infection. Bacteria may be involved, but yeast, eczema, contact irritation, denture fit, lip licking, or nutritional problems can also contribute. Mupirocin is a topical antibiotic, so it is useful only when a clinician thinks bacteria are part of the problem.

Persistent recurrence may mean the trigger has not been addressed. Applying leftover antibiotic, sharing a tube, or putting it inside the mouth can irritate the area and obscure the diagnosis.

Use mupirocin only as prescribed, on clean and gently dried skin, for the advised course. Wash hands before and after application and keep the nozzle from touching the sore area. A bland protective emollient can reduce saliva contact between applications. Avoid licking the corners, harsh lip products, and picking crusts. If the skin is mainly dry or eczema-like, a clinician may consider a different approach, such as topical corticosteroids, rather than an antibiotic alone.

Arrange a review if the cracks spread, become increasingly swollen, produce pus, or fail to improve during the prescribed course. Seek urgent help for swelling of the lips or face with breathing difficulty, widespread hives, or severe blistering after application. Children, people with diabetes, and anyone with reduced immunity should obtain tailored advice promptly.

Ask whether the corners show bacterial infection, yeast, eczema, or irritation; whether a protective emollient is suitable; how long to use mupirocin; and what to do if the problem returns.