Relationship between mysticism and severe odontogenic infections in Africa: what to do?

This study is a case report of a severe odontogenic infection treated at Huambo Provincial Hospital, Angola. The case was made worse by local mysticism.

A pregnant woman was treated for a severe odontogenic infection that caused descending mediastinitis and even a lumbar abscess. The patient died of this infection. A delay in attendance was crucial in this death.

Patients from the African continent commonly experience life-threatening head and neck infections. These critical infections are rarely found in Europe or North America. The clinical situation is aggravated by local mysticism, along with poverty, lack of access to health facilities, and a shortage of skilled workers. Religious habits and the use of local herbs without scientific evidence can create difficult-to-manage situations.

The authors believe this is the first report of an association between life-threatening odontogenic infection and mysticism. International collaboration, including teledentistry and continuing education, are critical to transforming this scene.