Detection of Bacterial Flora in Orofacial Space Infections and Their Antibiotic Sensitivity Profile

Most odontogenic infections arise as a sequel of pulp necrosis caused by caries, trauma, periodontitis, etc. They range from periapical abscesses to superficial and deep infections in neck. Some resolve with little consequence and some lead to severe infections of head and neck region. The purpose of this study was to identify microbial flora present in orofacial space infection of odontogenic origin and thereby provide better perspective in management of odontogenic infection.

Twenty-six patients with space infection of odontogenic origin were selected irrespective of their age and gender. Pus samples were collected and processed in the microbiology laboratory for the growth of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria and antibiotic sensitivity profile.

Demographic profile of the patients showed that male patients were more commonly involved and most patients fell in to the third and fourth decade of age groups. Most common site of involvement was submandibular space. Alpha hemolytic streptococci were the frequent aerobic bacterial isolate and among anaerobes, anaerobic streptococci followed by bacteroids were the major pathogens. Clindamycin, Gentamycin, Linezolid, Imipenam were the most effective antibiotics. 20 % of the aerobes were resistant to penicillin.

Streptococcus species are still the commonest pathogen in orofacial infections of odontogenic origin. Administration of amoxicillin clavulanic acid combination and metronidazole followed by surgical drainage of abscess and extraction of infected teeth, yielded satisfactory resolution of infection.