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A complication of tongue piercing
C S Perkins1, J Meisner, J M Harrison
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Cheltenham General Hospital, Gloucesterhire.
British Dental Journal
|February 22, 1997
Summary
Tongue piercing is increasingly popular, but can lead to serious infections like Ludwig
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Rising popularity of body modifications, specifically oral piercings.
- Potential for oral piercings to serve as a nidus for bacterial infections.
- Importance of recognizing and managing severe oral infections.
Observation:
- A case presentation of a patient with Ludwig's angina.
- The infection was secondary to a recent tongue piercing.
- Clinical signs and symptoms necessitating urgent intervention.
Findings:
- Successful management of Ludwig's angina in the context of tongue piercing.
- Identification of tongue piercing as a direct cause of severe infection.
- Discussion of the microbial etiology and pathogenic mechanisms.
Implications:
- Highlights the critical need for patient education on risks associated with tongue piercings.
- Emphasizes the importance of prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of deep neck space infections.
- Suggests a review of safety guidelines and aftercare protocols for oral piercings.