Bilateral canine space infection secondary to odontogenic origin: a rare case report

ABSTRACT

Odontogenic infections (OI) are a major reason for consultation in dental practice. They affect people of all ages, and most of them respond well to current medical and surgical treatments. The aim of this paper is to emphasize different and rare etiological factors that can play a role in odontogenic abscesses, which can lead to complications. A 54-year-old man complaints of pain and swelling on the upper front-side of his face. Physical examination of the face showed enlargement and swelling in the upper front region. Panoramic radiograph images showed a ra-diolucent appearance of the canine region. Based on the results of the clinical and radiographic examinations, the patient was diagnosed with a bilateral canine space infection. The treatment performed was FNAC (Fine neddle aspiration cytology) from canine region followed by intraoral drainage incision at the most prominent part of swelling (Modified Hiltons method), 5 ml of pus was removed, postoperative dressing was applied and regular follow-up was done with continued antibiotic therapy. Bilateral canine space abscess is a rare odontogenic infection that can cause life-threatening complications. The success of treatment requires early recognition, determination of etiological factors, and appropriate medical and surgical management. To per-form treatment of odontogenic infections, the Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon should understand the terminology regarding infectious diseases and pathophysiology. The success of treatment requires early recognition, determination of etiological factors, and appropriate medical and surgical management.