Chronic Osteomyelitis of the Maxilla and Mandible: Microbiological and Clinical Aspects

Elerson Gaetti-Jardim Júnior; Francisco Isaak Nicolas Ciesielski; Ricélia Possagno; Alvimar Lima de Castro; Antonio Carlos Marqueti & Ellen Cristina Gaetti-Jardim

Summary

Osteomyelitis of the mandible and maxilla are common in developing countries and their treatment may be long-standing and difficult. Thus, the aim of this study was to discuss the main biological aspects of the chronic osteomyelitis of the jaws of especial interest for dental team. These infections are associated with a complex microbiota composed mainly by anaerobic bacteria, sometimes associated with microorganisms originated from the skin and digestive tract. These data suggest that chronic osteomyelitis of the mandible and maxilla should be treated as anaerobic infections in most cases. In addition, local surgical treatments are relevant in the therapy outcome, associated to the use of antimicrobial agents, and the failure to accomplish them is a major cause of treatment failure. KEY WORDS: osteomyelitis, bacteria, anaerobes, maxilla, mandible.

How to cite this article

GAETTI-JARDIM, E. JR.; CIESIELSKI, F, I, N.; POSSAGNO, R.; CASTRO, A. L.; MARQUETI, A. C. & GAETTI-JARDIM. Chronic osteomyelitis of the maxilla and mandible: microbiological and clinical aspects. Int. J. Odontostomat., 4(2):197202, 2010.