Cancrum oris: Secondary to tooth extraction

Abstract

Cancrum oris is defined as a rapidly progressive necrosis of subcutaneous fat and fascia. It is a rare but life-threatening infection characterized by a progressive, usually rapid necrotizing process of the subcutaneous tissues and facial planes, the infection is able to spread through anatomic barriers such as muscles. Because of the rarity of the disease, diagnosis and treatment are often delayed. Successful treatment involves surgical debridement and high doses of antibiotic therapy along with the restoration of hemodynamic stability. We treated the case conservatively with debridement and high dose of antibiotics with which the patient recovered un eventfully.