Mandibular Osteomyelitis - Report of a case

Osteopetrosis is a bone disorder which is identified as an increase in bone density. Lack of blood supply and bone brittleness may predispose to pathologic fracture and osteomyelitis. The only effective way is bone marrow transplantation. The aim of this report is to introduce a patient with mandibular osteomyelitis who has not been treated efficiently in spite of several approaches. Case Report: Patient was a 4 – year old boy complained about mandibular pain, swelling and pus secretion. He had toxic appearance, pale conjective and deformity of extremities. Radiographic features showed diffused sclerosis, thickening and increased opacity of some parts of mandible – Malignant infantile osteopretrosis was diagnosed via inspection, radiography and bone marrow aspiration. Aggressive acute mandibular infection, led to incision and drainage (I & D) and décortication. Finally, long period of hospitalization caused psychological depression and he was discharged with psychological recommendations, drug and hygiene instruction. 8 months later infection recurred and the patient had no cooperation tendency and could bo longer been followed. Due to nature of osteopetrosis and infection predisposition, specially jaw osteomyelitis, oral hygiene instructions, regular appointments, early diagnosis and treatment of jaw infections is suggested.