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[Necrosis of maxilla secondary to purpura fulminans. A case report]
C Darbin-Luxcey1, H Foray1, P De Vries2
1Service d'odontologie du CHRU de Brest, 2, rue Auguste-Le-Faux, 29200 Brest, France; Faculté d'odontologie de Brest, UBO-UEB, 22, avenue Camille-Desmoulins, 29200 Brest, France.
Abstract:
Purpura fulminans in infants is a rare, life-threatening condition mostly due to Neisseria meningitides. The condition is often fatal unless there is early recognition of the clinical symptoms, prompt diagnosis, and judicious replacement therapy. We observed a case of maxilla necrosis in a 5-month-old infant due to purpura fulminans. An acute necrotic process affecting the maxilla with denudation of bone and spontaneous exfoliation of teeth was noted. After 2 months, the patient was free of symptoms. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of necrosis of the maxilla secondary to a purpura fulminans. Prompt diagnosis and prompt medical intervention are necessary to avoid such complications.
Insights
Purpura fulminans, a rare infant condition, can cause severe maxilla necrosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent fatal outcomes and complications like bone destruction.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Hematology
Background:
- Purpura fulminans is a rare, life-threatening condition in infants, often caused by Neisseria meningitides.
- Early recognition, diagnosis, and replacement therapy are critical for managing this condition.
Observation:
- A case of maxilla necrosis was observed in a 5-month-old infant with purpura fulminans.
- The infant presented with an acute necrotic process of the maxilla, leading to bone denudation and spontaneous tooth exfoliation.
Findings:
- This is the first reported case of maxilla necrosis secondary to purpura fulminans in an infant.
- The infant recovered from the acute symptoms within two months.
Implications:
- Highlights the potential for severe, unexpected complications of purpura fulminans, such as extensive facial bone necrosis.
- Emphasizes the critical need for prompt medical intervention in suspected cases of purpura fulminans to prevent devastating sequelae.
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