A Case of Osteopetrosis with Orbital Inflammation Secondary to Maxillary Osteomyelitis

Osteopetrosis is a rare heritable disorder characterized by increased bone density resulting from osteoclast dysfunction. Major complications include bone fracture, osteomyelitis, anemia, and cranial nerve compression. Optic atrophy can occur due to compression of the optic nerve. Although osteomyelitis of the jaw is a common complication, it rarely occurs in the maxilla. Here, we report a case of a 74-year-old female with osteopetrosis who developed maxillary osteomyelitis, leading to orbital inflammation.

She was referred to our clinic for 2 months of ptosis and swelling of the left eyelid and temporal region. Previous imaging revealed a left intraorbital occupying lesion, but a biopsy of the temporal subcutaneous tissue did not provide a definitive diagnosis. After 7 months, she presented with severe temporal swelling and purulent discharge. Upon examination, maxillary osteomyelitis resulting from caries of the upper jaw was observed. Treatment with oral antibiotics, drainage of the temporal skin fistula, and regular cleaning of the maxillary drainage improved her symptoms.

This is a rare case of maxillary osteomyelitis associated with osteopetrosis, causing orbital inflammation.