Life-threatening Oro-facial infections.

SummaryFour cases of oro-facial infection leading to life-threatening complications are reported. Although all had been treated with antibiotics prior to consultation, lack of surgical intervention had allowed the infection to progress. These cases are a reminder that acute spreading odontogenic infection can be life-threatening. Definitive treatment includes airway management, adequate resuscitation and optimization of pre-existing medical conditions prior to removal of the source of infection and drainage of pus. High dose intravenous antibiotics should be administered, with the initial choice of antibiotics modified in the light of subsequent bacteriological reports. The treatment of all odontogenic infections must include removal of the focus of infection, and drainage of pus.