Angular cheilitis and recurrent aphthous stomatitis as detection of hematinic deficiencies: Two case studies

Introduction: This case report aimed to describe the oral lesions indicating hematinic deficiency. Case report: The first case is a 20-year-old female patient with chief complaints of ulceration at the corner of her mouth. Laboratory examination revealed low haemogloblin, hematocrit, erythrocyte index, and RDW-CV levels. After clinical examination, she was diagnosed with angular cheilitis, related to iron deficiency anemia. She was prescribed 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash and multi-vitamins. The second case is 21-year-old male patient complaining of oral discomfort. Clinical examination revealed multiple ulcers in the oral mucosa. The working diagnosis was recurrent aphthous stomatitis and laboratory examination was conducted. Based on clinical and complete blood count, the patient was diagnosed recurrent aphthous stomatitis-related iron deficiency. He was prescribed 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash and multi-vitamins. Conclusion: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis and angular cheilitis are common oral lesions that indicate signs of hematinic deficiency. The dentists must carry out subjective and objective examinations along with appropriate investigations to detect the presence of systemic factors of underlying diseases for adequate case management.