Patient case: Cancrum Oris
A 6-year-old boy is brought to the clinic by his parents with a rapidly worsening ulceration on the side of his mouth and cheek. The parents report that the child had been ill with a fever and malnutrition over the past few weeks, and just three days ago, they noticed a small sore at the corner of his mouth. Since then, the sore has expanded quickly, causing significant tissue destruction around his lips, gums, and part of his cheek. The area has a foul odor, and the child is in pain, unable to eat or speak properly.
On examination, the boy is febrile, visibly malnourished, and dehydrated. There is extensive necrosis of the tissues around the left side of his mouth, with blackened areas and exposed bone in the cheek. The diagnosis of cancrum oris (noma) is made. He is immediately admitted for aggressive treatment, including intravenous antibiotics, nutritional support, and wound care. A multidisciplinary team, including pediatricians, surgeons, and nutritionists, is involved in his care to manage the infection and plan for future reconstructive surgery to restore facial function and appearance.
A) Fever
B) Rapidly worsening sore on the side of the mouth
C) Difficulty breathing
D) Excessive drooling
A) Allergies
B) Malnutrition
C) Viral infection
D) Poor dental hygiene
A) Swelling with pus
B) Extensive tissue necrosis and exposed bone
C) Bleeding gums
D) Redness with no ulcers
A) Surgical excision only
B) Topical medications
C) Intravenous antibiotics, nutritional support, and wound care
D) Pain management and observation
