DefinePK

Abstract

Background: Fascial space infections are potentially life-threatening complications of odontogenic infections that arise due to delayed or inadequate treatment. These infections can rapidly spread through facial planes, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, and may involve multiple anatomical spaces such as the buccal, submandibular, and canine regions. Prompt recognition and surgical management are critical to prevent serious outcomes like cellulitis, airway obstruction, or Ludwig’s angina.
Case Presentation: This case series describes three patients with distinct presentations of fascial space infections. The first case involved a 40-year-old woman who presented with a four-day history of pain and brany swelling in the upper right posterior maxilla, diagnosed as a buccal space infection secondary to a carious maxillary first molar. The second case was a 60-year-old woman undergoing radiotherapy for breast cancer, who presented with a six-day history of left facial swelling and was diagnosed with a canine space infection linked to an upper left canine beneath a prosthetic bridge. The third case involved a 40-year-old woman with left lower facial swelling and trismus. Examination revealed a carious mandibular third molar and a diagnosis of buccal and submandibular space infection.
Intervention and Outcome: All patients were managed with surgical incision and drainage, supported by systemic antibiotics. The offending teeth were either extracted or treated endodontically. Follow-up showed full clinical recovery in all cases, with no recurrence of infection. Immunocompromised status in one case necessitated cautious monitoring and intravenous antibiotic therapy.
Conclusion: These cases highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and management of odontogenic infections to prevent their progression into deep fascial spaces. Early surgical intervention, appropriate antibiotic coverage, and individualized care based on comorbidities are crucial for favorable outcomes.