Open AccessDeep head and neck infection causing pathological fracture of the mandibular condyle
Author(s) -
Mette Werner Linderup,
Sidse Bregendahl,
Malene Helleberg,
Sten Schytte,
Arunas Pikelis,
Sven Erik Nørholt
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
bjr case reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2055-7159
DOI - 10.1259/bjrcr.20160093
Subject(s) - condyle , pathological , medicine , odontogenic infection , molar , mandibular fracture , head and neck , dentistry , fracture (geology) , presentation (obstetrics) , orthodontics , odontogenic , surgery , pathology , biology , paleontology
We report an unusual case of a 46-year-old male with a severe deep head and neck infection after extraction of two mandibular molars that led to a potentially life-threatening condition and caused pathological fracture of the mandibular condyle. This is the first published spontaneous pathological fracture of the mandibular condyle caused by an infection spread from a lower molar tooth. Based on CT scan we discuss the pathways of infection of odontogenic origin and the reflections of treatment. This case report illustrates an unusual presentation of a spontaneous pathological condylar fracture caused by a severe life-threatening infection after tooth extraction. It details the examination and management of the patient and reflections about the treatment.