Protocol for managing acute cancrum oris in children: An experience in five cases

• Main Authors: Adeola D (Author), Obiadazie A (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications, 2009-01-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 0189-6725
• Keywords: Cancrum oris; children; Northern Nigeria; Pediatrics; RJ1-570; Surgery; RD1-811
• Source: African Journal of Paediatric Surgery, Vol 6, Iss 2, Pp 77-81 (2009)

<b>Background: </b> Acute cancrum oris (NOMA) is a major health concern in most parts of northern Nigeria, affecting children aged 2-9 years. The management of the acute phase/condition poses a great clinical challenge. We present our protocol for the management of acute NOMA in a referral health facility in northern Nigeria.<b> Materials and Methods: </b> The management of five consecutive children with acute NOMA managed at the maxillo-facial department of Ahamdu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Kaduna, is presented. The initial management is conservative, followed later by multiple reconstructions.<b> Results: </b> NOMA<b> </b> thrives in children with poor nutritional status and/or compromised immune status. Aggressive wound debridement, antibiotic therapy and nutritional rehabilitation limited the spread of the orofacial tissue destruction and produced rapid wound healing. <b> Conclusion</b> : The management of acute NOMA should be nonoperative; surgery is only indicated to debride the ulcer. Efforts to boost patient&#x2032;s immune and nutritional<b> </b> status limit further tissue destruction and produced satisfactory wound healing.