Odontogenic infections: severe complications associated with diabetes mellitus

Authors

  • Angelo Luiz Freddo UFRGS
  • Fernando Vacilotto Gomes UFRGS
  • Carlos Alberto Medeiros Martins
  • Guilherme Genehr Fritscher PUCRS
  • Marcos Antonio Torriani UFPel

Keywords:

Ludwig’s angina, soft tissue infections, cellulitis, diabetes mellitus, mediastinitis,

Abstract

Objective: Ludwig’s angina is a severe form of diffuse cellulitis occurring in the cervicofacial region, with aggressive characteristics that systemically affect the patient and can lead to death. Disease severity is due to the formation of extensive laryngeal cellulitis, which evolves to edema of the glottis and consequently acute respiratory obstruction. The rapid progression of infection and the establishment of a severe general medical condition requires fast diagnosis and adequate management in order to improve prognosis. Case Report: This paper describes two cases of Ludwig’s angina in patients with diabetes mellitus treated at public hospitals in southern Brazil, with a focus on clinical characteristics, disease evolution, and treatment. Conclusion: Depending on the patient’s systemic conditions and the kind of established treatment, it may guide the diseased prognosis. One of the patients had a favorable outcome, whereas the other developed mediastinitis and died.

Author Biographies

Angelo Luiz Freddo, UFRGS

Fernando Vacilotto Gomes, UFRGS

Graduando em odontologia pela FO/PUCRS. Bolsista CNPq. Atuação na área de CTBMF.

Carlos Alberto Medeiros Martins

Guilherme Genehr Fritscher, PUCRS

Marcos Antonio Torriani, UFPel

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Published

2013-02-11

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Section

Case Report