Residual facial deformity resulting from cancrum oris: a case report

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Cancrum oris (noma) is a neglected disease primarily affecting children in impoverished regions.
• Limited epidemiological data and case reports exist for cancrum oris in Kenya.
• Acute necrotizing gingivitis (ANG) is a known precursor to cancrum oris.

Observation:

• A rare case of cancrum oris sequelae is presented in a 17-year-old Kenyan female.
• The patient exhibited oral cutaneous fistula and left cheek tissue atrophy.
• The condition resulted from a childhood cancrum oris infection.

Findings:

• This case highlights the underreporting of cancrum oris in Kenya.
• The patient's presentation underscores the long-term disfiguring effects of the disease.
• No prior epidemiological or treatment studies on cancrum oris in Kenya were identified.

Implications:

• Emphasizes the need for increased awareness and reporting of cancrum oris in Kenya.
• Highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and management of ANG to prevent noma.
• Suggests potential challenges in managing severe sequelae in resource-limited settings.