Cancrum oris-like lesions

Cancrum oris is predominantly seen in children in underdeveloped countries where widespread malnutrition, dehydration and epidemic infections are present. In the western world, it is sometimes found in immunosuppressed adults with predisposing conditions such as leukaemia and infection associated with malnutrition. Early diagnosis and an intensive therapeutic approach are the key to a favourable prognosis of noma-like necro-ulcerative lesions. The prognosis is significantly improved if the predisposing condition can be removed. Two cases are presented and the treatment is discussed.