Cause -inflammation and soreness of lips; crusting at edges (not Herpes simplex)

[Donaldo]

Suffering from repeated soreness, swelling and irritation of lips - and crusting at corners -already confirmed not Herpes simplex - previously had this about a year ago and it lasted for a year ; disappeared for several months and now returning - saw 7 doctors including allergists and dermatologists and never had real diagnosis; one doctor thought might be allergic reaction to own saliva (others discounted that).  Ten years ago had radiation for head neck cancer and lips were in area of radiation but no one has indicated there is any relationship.  Looking for some answers and treatment to ease pain, swelling and irritation, as so far no treatment has succeeded.

[who_is_this]

Could be eczema.  It is not uncommon to have it around the edges and corners of the mouth.  I'd show it to another dermatologist when you have it next time.  If you have open, weeping or crusting sores from it from time to time, it could be infected (as happens often with eczema) and you might need an antibiotic at that time.

This might be a good question for Dr. Rockoff in the Dermatology Forum.

[Donaldo]

Thank you for your comment.  We will ask about eczema, but up until now, antibiotics have had no effect nor provided any resolution.

[southaferica]

It could be a  deficiency of vitamin B6, Hope this helps!

[darlingdivatx]

Believe it or not I bet money you have a yeast infection. Yes yeast infection....of the lips not thrush, which is infection of the throat. There is a prescription medicine for this you apply to your lips. Don't know the name. A dermatologist should be able to diagnose this. If yours can't find another. Good luck and keep us posted.

[readhairedcrazywoman]

I too would sugest either a folic acid/vitamin B deficiancy or yeast. I had problems with this same thing and it turned out to be a vitamin deficiancy due to ant-sezure medication I had been taking for a long time. I have also had similar symptoms and it has been yeast, even though I show no sings of thrush.

[Cath278]

Hi. Just read your post. i have had the same problem but put it down to the steroids im taking. Not so, it was a Vit B12 deficiancy. One injection later and I can feel the improvment already. Have a word with your dr. Cath278

[Mamacece]

I have same symptoms that recur. I'm a vegetarian maybe that's why?  Is it Vit B6 or B12??  that's needed?  I Rand anti seizure med also.