Management of odontogenic cellulitis in pediatric patients

Abstract

Introduction Odontogenic cellulitis is a bacterial infection of dental origin that spreads to the facial soft tissues. In pediatrics it is a frequent medical emergency due to its rapid progression and risk of complications, especially in children under 6 years of age, with a higher prevalence in boys. Its most common cause is untreated dental caries that evolves into pulp and periapical infection. The most frequent etiological agents are Streptococcus viridans, Prevotella and Fusobacterium. Case presentation: male patient aged 5 years 8 months, with no relevant history, presents with fever, right facial swelling, pain and difficulty eating. There is an increase in volume, erythema and induration in infraorbital, nasolabial, maxillary and right mandibular areas. Intraorally, there is pulp necrosis in the right upper first molar with coronary destruction. Acute odontogenic cellulitis was diagnosed. Drainage, irrigation with physiological solution and chlorhexidine was performed, and treatment with amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, paracetamol, oral hygiene and fomentation was indicated. After 5 days, improvement was observed and pulpectomy and crown placement was performed. At 7 days, the infection had subsided. Conclusion Early diagnosis, timely comprehensive treatment and the active participation of the parents made it possible to control the infection and achieve total recovery of the patient, avoiding complications