Current and future treatment options for perioral dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis (POD) is a persistent erythematous eruption composed of small papules and papulo-pustules localized around the mouth. POD affects children and adults. Several agents have been implicated in its pathogenesis, including cosmetics and glucocorticoids. If untreated, the classical form of POD has a tendency to persist, especially if the patient habitually uses moisturizing and/or night cream. For successful management of POD, the first stop should be the discontinuation of all topical corticosteroids being used by the patient, after which the eruption usually resolves. In resistant cases, POD requires pharmacological treatment.