10th July 2023

A 32-year-old woman presents with perioral crusting and hair loss

A 32-year-old woman presents with perioral crusting and hair loss. The areas around the corners of her mouth have been ‘sore’ for weeks. On clinical examination, the patient has a BMI of 18 and admits to deliberately reducing her oral intake.

What is the most likely underlying cause for her symptoms?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.