Cancrum oris among Nigerian children

Background: Cancrum oris is a serious health and social problem in developing societies. A retrospective review of Cancrum Oris patients seen in ABUTH over a ten- year period was done to determine the predisposing factors and management.
Method: Data was obtained from patient's case notes, theatre records and clinic notes.
Results: 252 patients were seen during the period under review. The highest incidence occurred in the 3-6 year age group. There was no significant sex difference in presentation. The predisposing factors were large family size, low socioeconomic status, poor nutritional status and childhood diseases especially measles and malaria. There was a seasonal variation, with the disease occurring most often during the dry season. The Hausa-Fulani ethnic groups were more commonly affected. Cancrum oris caused both soft and bony tissue destruction in 90% of patients and affected both mandible and maxilla resulting in bony ankylosis. There is an apparent reduction in mortality due probably to the advent of potent antibiotics.
Conclusion: Poor oral hygiene, malnutrition, debilitating diseases (such as HIV/AIDS) and lack of maternal care have been identified as predisposing factors to the development of the disease. Health education and economic empowerment are still required in order to curb the menace of this devastating disease.