Cheilosis
Type: Symptom
Definition
Inflammatory cracking and scaling of the lips and corners of the mouth.
Clinical Details
Like other B-vitamin deficiencies, a lack of B6 impairs the rapid cell regeneration needed to maintain the oral mucosa. The lips become abnormally dry, scaly, and deeply fissured, particularly at the commissures (corners). These painful cracks can bleed during speech and eating.