Perioral Dermatitis
Pronunciation: peh-ree-OR-al der-mah-TY-tis
A facial dermatosis characterised by papulopustular eruptions around the mouth (and sometimes the nose and eyes), frequently triggered or worsened by topical corticosteroid use.
Full Definition
Perioral dermatitis (POD) presents with clusters of small erythematous papules and pustules in a perioral distribution, classically sparing a small zone immediately adjacent to the vermilion border of the lips. It predominantly affects young women and is strongly associated with the prolonged use of topical corticosteroids, fluorinated toothpastes, and heavy cosmetic creams. Editors should note the correct hyphenation: 'perioral' is one word (no hyphen). The term 'periorificial dermatitis' is the preferred broader designation when lesions also affect perinasal and periorbital regions, and editors may need to query which term the author intends. POD is an acceptable abbreviation in clinical correspondence after full expansion.
Usage
Usage note: 'Perioral' is unhyphenated. Query whether 'periorificial dermatitis' is the intended term when lesions extend beyond the perioral zone.
In Context
- "Perioral dermatitis was diagnosed after the patient reported worsening despite increasing topical corticosteroid use." — Dermatology outpatient letter
- "The author wrote 'peri-oral dermatitis'; the editor closed the hyphen to 'perioral' per standard nomenclature." — Journal copyedit