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Cachexia in a mentally retarded adolescent secondary to mandibular dislocation.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|June 1, 1985
Summary
A previously undetected anterior mandibular dislocation caused severe weight loss in a 19-year-old male. Prompt reduction of the dislocation led to significant appetite improvement and rapid weight gain.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Internal Medicine
- Medical Case Reports
Background:
- Cachexia, a complex metabolic syndrome, presents with involuntary weight loss and muscle wasting.
- Mandibular dislocations, while uncommon, can significantly impact oral function and nutritional intake.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old male with intellectual disability presented with a five-month history of severe cachexia.
- Physical examination revealed a previously undetected anterior dislocation of the mandible.
Findings:
- The cachexia was directly attributed to the anterior mandibular dislocation, which impaired the patient's ability to eat.
- Following the successful reduction of the mandibular dislocation, the patient experienced a marked improvement in appetite.
Implications:
- This case highlights the critical role of proper mandibular alignment in maintaining nutritional status.
- Early diagnosis and management of mandibular dislocations are essential for preventing severe systemic complications like cachexia.