NOMA (cancrum oris)
Extensive destruction of hard and soft tissues
NOMA (Cancrum Oris)
Gangrene of the face.This occurs primarily in young, severely malnourished children, 2-10 years of age, particularly in sub Saharan Africa.
What to look for
- Inflammation of the gums and inner cheeks where the inflamed area will ulcerate if not treated
- Ulcers develop a foul-smelling drainage, causing breath odour as the tissues begin to die
- Eventual destruction of the bones around the mouth will cause deformity and loss of teeth
- In severe cases, the jawbone will be infected and this can spread through the cheek to the face
Get medical help quickly, in hospital if possible since Noma can be fatal if left untreated (the World Health Organisation estimate that 70 – 90% 0f cases die). Antibiotics and nutritional support can halt progression of the disease, however, plastic surgery may be necessary to clean destroyed tissues and reconstruct facial bone loss.
poor sanitation and poor cleanliness
These pictures and the related text are free to download for training purposes only.
But please consider a donation to support our work.