[Bacterial growth on carcinomas of the oral mucosa]

Carcinomas of the oral mucosa are colonized by a variety of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria. Apart from the normal flora of the oral cavity also organisms of pathogenic potential are found, which may cause postoperative wound infections. A specific antibiotic prophylaxis regimen in extensive head and neck surgery requires identification of the pathopotent organisms and sensitivity testing followed by perioperative individual antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis management. The results of an additional bacteriological examination of the surrounding pharyngeal flora showed no major difference to the range of organisms found in the carcinoma.