Abstract

AZENHA, Marcelo Rodrigues et al. Odontogenic facial cellulitis: a presentation of five cases. Rev. cir. traumatol. buco-maxilo-fac. [online]. 2012, vol.12, n.3, pp. 41-48. ISSN 1808-5210.

Most odontogenic infections arise from pulpar necrosis with bacterial invasion in the periapical and periodontal tissue, which may lead to abscess formation when the infection prevails over the resistance of the host. In situations where the pus cannot drain through the oral mucosa or the skin surface, the abscess may extend through the fascial planes of the soft tissues, a condition known as cellulitis. Severe complications from fascial cellulitis can occur if the treatment instituted is not appropriate, with possible progression to cavernous sinus thrombosis, brain abscess, mediastinitis or even death. The treatment of choice should therefore be rapid and aggressive pus drainage in association with broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antibacterial drugs. The aim of this paper is to present a series of cases of facial cellulitis of odontogenic origin affecting patients of different ages, the proposed treatment being a combination of drug therapy, immediate drainage of pus and extraction of the infected teeth.

Keywords : Tooth infection.; Fascial cellulitis.; Drainage..