What organism is primarily responsible for causing angular cheilitis?

What organism is primarily responsible for causing angular cheilitis?

• A. Staphylococcus aureus
• B. Candida albicans
• C. Escherichia coli
• D. Herpes simplex virus

Answer: (B)

Angular cheilitis is primarily associated with the overgrowth of the Candida albicans organism. This yeast-like fungus is part of the normal flora of the human body, but certain conditions can lead to its overgrowth, particularly in warm and moist environments. Angular cheilitis typically presents with inflammation and cracks at the corners of the mouth, which can be exacerbated by factors such as salivary pooling, ill-fitting dentures, or compromised immune status. While other organisms can also play a role in oral lesions, Candida albicans is the most common pathogen linked specifically to angular cheilitis. Staphylococcus aureus can contribute to skin infections but is less frequently implicated in this condition. Escherichia coli is primarily a gastrointestinal pathogen and not typically related to oral lesions. Herpes simplex virus can cause lip lesions, but these appear distinct and are characterized differently than those seen in angular cheilitis. Thus, Candida albicans stands out as the primary organism responsible for this specific oral condition.

Angular cheilitis is primarily associated with the overgrowth of the Candida albicans organism. This yeast-like fungus is part of the normal flora of the human body, but certain conditions can lead to its overgrowth, particularly in warm and moist environments. Angular cheilitis typically presents with inflammation and cracks at the corners of the mouth, which can be exacerbated by factors such as salivary pooling, ill-fitting dentures, or compromised immune status.

While other organisms can also play a role in oral lesions, Candida albicans is the most common pathogen linked specifically to angular cheilitis. Staphylococcus aureus can contribute to skin infections but is less frequently implicated in this condition. Escherichia coli is primarily a gastrointestinal pathogen and not typically related to oral lesions. Herpes simplex virus can cause lip lesions, but these appear distinct and are characterized differently than those seen in angular cheilitis. Thus, Candida albicans stands out as the primary organism responsible for this specific oral condition.