[Temporal cellulitis of odontogenic origin complicated by temporomandibular osteoarthritis]

Temporal cellulitis complicated by temporomandibular osteoarthritis and mandibular osteomyelitis is rare with the availability of antibiotics and the prevention of dental infections.

A 56 year-old woman developed a jaw abscess during hospitalization in an intensive care unit following medical drug overdose. Repeatedly surgical drainage was performed guided by CT scans and multiple antibiotherapies. CT scan follow-up revealed temporomandibular arthritis with decrease of the joint space, synovitis, and subchondral cysts. Slow improvement was noted but limited mouth opening was persistent.

This case illustrates the insidious evolution of an uncommon infection. It requires both expert clinical evaluation and an early MRI or CT scan investigation to determine the extension of the infection. Treatment is urgent because of the prognosis and is achieved by surgical drainage and adequate long-term antibiotherapy.