Cheilitis Glandularis

Cheilitis Glandularis 

  Definition 

     Rare inflammatory condition affecting minor salivary glands of the lower lip.

  Etiology 

     The etiology is uncertain although several etiologic factors have been suggested as:

         actinic damage (chronic sun exposure), infection, and tobacco irritation.

  Clinical Features 

     Cheilitis      glandularis   is  characterized   by   swelling   and  eversion   of   the   lower   lip   due   to

        hypertrophy and inflammation of the labial salivary glands.

     The orifices of the minor salivary ducts are dilated and inflamed giving the labial mucosa a

        red macular appearance. 

     Malignant transformation may occur  in the overlying epithelium of the lip.