Method of Diagnostics of Contact Cheilits in the Population of the Extreme North

Abstract

The etiopathogenetic features of the development of some forms of cheilitis are determined by the climatic and geographical features of the population of the Far North. Contact cheilitis is an inflammatory reaction of the lips caused by an irritant or allergic action of various substances in direct contact with the lips. The pathogenesis of contact cheilitis is based on the mechanism of delayed-type hypersensitivity allergic reaction. Clinically, the contact cheilitis is manifested by dryness and burning of the lips, peeling, redness, and with a long course, cracks form. Contact cheilitis is most often diagnosed on the red border of the lips, extending to the skin around the red border. The purpose of this study is to determine the main algorithm for diagnosing contact cheilitis in the population of the Far North. The study involved 24 patients with a similar clinical picture and unidentified forms of cheilitis. The study was conducted for three months in the winter season. All patients were determined in the blood serum level of total immunoglobulin E by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. If contact cheilitis was suspected, after a thorough history taking, an exposure provocative allergy test was performed for each subject, with the most likely source of contact cheilitis. After 14 days of the prescribed etiopathogenetic treatment, using allergen-specific kits, plates of commercial application samples were installed. During the study, it was found that 5 patients have elevated levels of immunoglobulin E. The most important step in the diagnosis of suspected contact cheilitis at the patient's dental appointment is the collection of the patient's anamnestic data. If the allergic nature of cheilitis is suspected, it is necessary to determine the level of total immunoglobulin E. If the result is positive, it is necessary to conduct provocative allergic and application testing. This algorithm is the most rational diagnostic method for prescribing timely therapy and further prevention of contact cheilitis.