Associated symptoms
Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory reddening of the skin with raised blisters in the region around the mouth or eyes. The changes develop slowly and can persist for months with varying intensity. Typical is a light-colored borderline that borders directly on the lips and is not affected.
Those affected report itching and a feeling of tension in the skin. It is also possible that the inflammation of the skin spreads to the entire lower half of the face. It is also possible that there are only changes around the eyes. Deterioration with the use of corticoids (after a short interval of improvement) is also among the symptoms.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of perioral dermatitis is a so-called gaze diagnosis. The typical localization of the reddened and scaly skin with the blisters (filled with and without pus) around the mouth or eyes is groundbreaking. The pale margin around the lips is considered to be indicative. In addition, it helps to ask the affected persons after the use of corticoids or care products such as moisturizers. It is also considered typical that the use of corticoids worsens the clinical picture after a brief improvement in symptoms.
Perioral dermatitis of the eye?
If the inflamed skin is very close to the eye, many affected people are often afraid that the eye could be infected. This is usually not the case. One can take care that no further infection of the skin symptoms can occur through manipulation with the fingers.
Other germs that multiply in this way near the eyes can infect and inflame the eye. Then it comes to symptoms, like itching, pain or a strong redness directly at the eye. Especially if there are strong suppurations, this indicates an acute bacterial event and it is advisable to consider an antibiotic therapy together with the treating physician. The doctor can also determine or exclude another cause of the inflammation in the eye.
Perioral dermatitis of the nose?
At the nose it behaves as in the remaining area of the face. In general, antibiotic therapy is prescribed with restraint. Antibiotics are always directed against bacteria and can be effective in case of a strong bacterial infestation. If there are signs of such an infection of the existing perioral dermatitis, for example in the form of redness, pain and especially purulent secretions, antibiotics can be used.
