A Cutaneous Odontogenic Sinus / 대한피부과학회지

Cutaneous odontogenic sinuses are the most common cause of chronic draining sinus tracts on the face and neck. These lesions present as erythematous nodules with surrounding dimples, which intermittently drain purulent fluid. Although most patients do not have dental symptoms, careful questioning of a patient's past symptoms may help the clinician identify a dental etiology. A history of toothache in the affected area that resolves without dental intervention is useful information. Clinical and radiographic examination may reveal carious teeth with radiolucent areas. Elimination of the source of infection by endodontic treatment or tooth removal results in resolution of the sinus tract, typically within 2 weeks. Early precise diagnosis and appropriate dental treatment can circumvent unnecessary and ineffective antibiotic therapy or surgical treatment. We report a case of a cutaneous odontogenic sinus in the right cheek area.

A Case of Cutaneous Sinus Tract of Dental Origin / 대한피부과학회지

Cutaneous sinus tract of dental origin is a syndrome rather than a disease entity, and is composed of a periapical abscess, sinus tract and granulomatous skin change at the opening of the tract. The presence of an intermittently-draining, granulomatous lesion on the face or neck should alert clinicians to the necessity of a routine dental examination, including radiographic studies. Early correct diagnosis and appropriate dental treatment can prevent unnecessary and ineffective antibiotic therapy or surgical treatment. We report a case of a 68 year-old woman with a cutaneous sinus tract on the right nasolabial fold, secondary to infection of eight maxillary remnant teeth.