Perioral dermatitis (patient information)

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Overview
Perioral dermatitis is a skin disorder characterized by tiny red bumps (papules) around the mouth.

What are the symptoms of Perioral dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is usually characterized by an uncomfortable burning sensation around the mouth. Itching is not a common symptom.

In most cases, bumps (papules) and fluid- or pus-filled bumps (vesicopustules) are seen around the mouth. Rarely, a similar rash may appear around the eyes, nose, or forehead. The rash appears very similar to acne.

Usually, patients are most concerned with the cosmetic appearance of the bumps.

What causes Perioral dermatitis?
While its exact cause is unknown, it may appear after skin creams containing steroids are applied to the face to treat other conditions.

Who is at highest risk?
Perioral dermatitis most commonly affects young women. However, it sometimes affects men, too.

Diagnosis
Your health care provider will likely diagnose perioral dermatitis based upon the appearance of your skin. A test for bacteria may sometimes be needed to eliminate the possibility of infection.

When to seek urgent medical care?
Call your health care provider if you notice persistent red bumps around your mouth.

Treatment options
Generally, skin creams containing steroids should not be used to treat perioral dermatitis. Your health care provider may choose to treat the bumps with other topical (applied directly to the skin) medications, such as metronidazole, erythromycin, benzoyl peroxide, tacrolimus, clindamycin, or pimecrolimus.

In more severe cases, oral antibiotics (such as tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, or erythromycin) may be required.

Where to find medical care for Perioral dermatitis?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Perioral dermatitis

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Perioral dermatitis is a difficult condition to treat effectively. It often requires several months of treatment.

It is not unusual for the bumps to return, particularly if skin creams containing steroids are reapplied to the face.

Prevention of Perioral dermatitis
Avoid using skin creams containing steroids on your face, unless specifically directed by your dermatologist.