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Verma A, Zaheer A, Ahsan A, Anand A, Abu Serhan H, Nazli Khatib M, Syed Zahiruddin Q, Gaidhane AM, Kukreti N, Rustagi S, Satapathy P, Sharma D, Arora M, Kumar Sharma R. Noma in the WHO's list of neglected tropical diseases: A review of its impact on undeveloped and developing tropical regions. Prev Med Rep 2024; 43:102764. [PMID: 38826589 PMCID: PMC11141281 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Noma is a neglected tropical disease and a global health concern. Objectives To elucidate the epidemiology, management, prevention, and public health implications of Noma. Methods PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, supplemented by Google Scholar and World Health Organization databases, were searched using keywords to gather both published and grey literature from 1970 to 2023 in English. Results Approximately 30,000-40,000 cases occur annually, with varying incidences across various African countries, such as Nigeria, Niger, and Chad. Incidence in Nigerian and Ethiopian states range from 0.6 to 3300 and 1.64 to 13.4 per 100,000 population, respectively. Mortality is approximately 8.5% in Niger. Risk factors include malnutrition, immunocompromised status, poor dental hygiene, inadequate sanitation, gingival lesions, low socioeconomic status, chronic and infectious diseases, low birth weight, high parity, diarrhoea, and fever. Diagnosis is primarily made based on clinical signs/symptoms and accordingly staging of disease is done. Stage I, II and II presents with acute necrotizing gingivitis, facial edema with halitosis, and necrotizing stomatitis, respectively. If the patient survives acute stages, the progress to Stage IV and Stage V manifests as trismus, difficulty in deglutition and phonation, and facial disfigurement, with increased severity in last stage. Treatment encompasses antibiotic therapy (amoxicillin, metronidazole, chlorhexidine, ampicillin, gentamicin), surgical interventions, wound management (honey dressing, ketamine), and nutritional support. Prevention strategies include oral hygiene, vaccination, health education, and community-based interventions. Conclusion Noma's recent inclusion in WHO list of neglected tropical diseases is a milestone in recognizing the importance of prevention and early intervention to globally enhance health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amogh Verma
- Rama Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Hapur, India
| | - Amna Zaheer
- Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Areeba Ahsan
- Foundation University Medical College, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Ayush Anand
- BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal
| | | | - Mahalaqua Nazli Khatib
- Division of Evidence Synthesis, Global Consortium of Public Health and Research, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education, Wardha, India
| | - Quazi Syed Zahiruddin
- South Asia Infant Feeding Research Network (SAIFRN), Division of Evidence Synthesis, Global Consortium of Public Health and Research, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education, Wardha, India
| | - Abhay M Gaidhane
- Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, and Global Health Academy, School of Epidemiology and Public Health. Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education, Wardha, India
| | - Neelima Kukreti
- School of Pharmacy, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, India
| | - Sarvesh Rustagi
- School of Applied and Life Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Prakasini Satapathy
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai 602117, India
- Medical Laboratories Techniques Department, AL-Mustaqbal University, 51001 Hillah, Babil, Iraq
| | - Divya Sharma
- Centre of Research Impact and Outcome, Chitkara University, Rajpura, India
| | - Mithhil Arora
- Chitkara Centre for Research and Development, Chitkara University, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Rakesh Kumar Sharma
- Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, India
- Graphic Era (Deemed to be University), Dehradun, India
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Farley E, Karinja MN, Lawal AM, Olaleye M, Muhammad S, Umar M, Gaya FK, Mbaeri SC, Sherlock M, Kabila DW, Peters M, Samuel J, Maloba G, Usman R, van der Kam S, Ritmeijer K, Ariti C, Amirtharajah M, Lenglet A, Falq G. Proportion of paediatric admissions with any stage of noma at the Anka General Hospital, northwest Nigeria. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011508. [PMID: 37889919 PMCID: PMC10645368 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Noma is a rapidly spreading infection of the oral cavity which mainly affects young children. Without early treatment, it can have a high mortality rate. Simple gingivitis is a warning sign for noma, and acute necrotizing gingivitis is the first stage of noma. The epidemiology of noma is not well understood. We aimed to understand the prevalence of all stages of noma in hospitalised children. METHODS We conducted a prospective observational study from 1st June to 24th October 2021, enrolling patients aged 0 to 12 years who were admitted to the Anka General Hospital, Zamfara, northwest Nigeria. Consenting parents/ guardians of participants were interviewed at admission. Participants had anthropometric and oral examinations at admission and discharge. FINDINGS Of the 2346 patients, 58 (2.5%) were diagnosed with simple gingivitis and six (n = 0.3%) with acute necrotizing gingivitis upon admission. Of those admitted to the Inpatient Therapeutic Feeding Centre (ITFC), 3.4% (n = 37, CI 2.5-4.7%) were diagnosed with simple gingivitis upon admission compared to 1.7% of those not admitted to the ITFC (n = 21, CI 1.1-2.6%) (p = 0.008). Risk factors identified for having simple gingivitis included being aged over two years (2 to 6 yrs old, odds ratio (OR) 3.4, CI 1.77-6.5; 7 to 12 yrs OR 5.0, CI 1.7-14.6; p = <0.001), being admitted to the ITFC (OR 2.1; CI 1.22-3.62) and having oral health issues in the three months prior to the assessment (OR 18.75; CI 10.65, 33.01). All (n = 4/4) those aged six months to five years acute necrotizing gingivitis had chronic malnutrition. CONCLUSION Our study showed a small proportion of children admitted to the Anka General Hospital had simple or acute necrotizing gingivitis. Hospital admission with malnutrition was a risk factor for both simple and acute necrotizing gingivitis. The lack of access to and uptake of oral health care indicates a strong need for oral examinations to be included in routine health services. This provision could improve the oral status of the population and decrease the chance of patients developing noma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Farley
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Noma Children’s Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Michael Olaleye
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Noma Children’s Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Sadiya Muhammad
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Nigeria Mission, Zamfara and Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Maryam Umar
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Nigeria Mission, Zamfara and Abuja, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | - Miriam Peters
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Nigeria Mission, Zamfara and Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Joseph Samuel
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Noma Children’s Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Guy Maloba
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Nigeria Mission, Zamfara and Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Rabi Usman
- Zamfara Ministry of Health, Zamfara, Nigeria
| | | | | | - Cono Ariti
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Kleandrova VV, Cordeiro MNDS, Speck-Planche A. Optimizing drug discovery using multitasking models for quantitative structure-biological effect relationships: an update of the literature. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2023; 18:1231-1243. [PMID: 37639708 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2023.2251385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Drug discovery has provided modern societies with the means to fight against many diseases. In this sense, computational methods have been at the forefront, playing an important role in rationalizing the search for novel drugs. Yet, tackling phenomena such as the multi-genic nature of diseases and drug resistance are limitations of the current computational methods. Multi-tasking models for quantitative structure-biological effect relationships (mtk-QSBER) have emerged to overcome such limitations. AREAS COVERED The present review describes an update on the fundamentals and applications of the mtk-QSBER models as tools to accelerate multiple stages/substages of the drug discovery process. EXPERT OPINION Computational approaches are extremely important for the rationalization of the search for novel and efficacious therapeutic agents. However, they need to focus more on the multi-target drug discovery paradigm. In this sense, mtk-QSBER models are particularly suited for multi-target drug discovery, offering encouraging opportunities across multiple therapeutic areas and scientific disciplines associated with drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria V Kleandrova
- Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Research of Quality and Technology of Food Production, Russian Biotechnological University, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - M Natália D S Cordeiro
- LAQV@REQUIMTE/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Alejandro Speck-Planche
- LAQV@REQUIMTE/Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Health-related quality of life in patients with noma (cancrum oris): Case series. Int J Surg Case Rep 2023; 103:107878. [PMID: 36638584 PMCID: PMC9840349 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2023.107878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE Cancrum oris (noma) is a destructive disease of orofacial tissues and adjacent structures that progress rapidly, causing functional and cosmetic problems to the patient and ultimately affecting their health-related quality of life. This case series focuses on the impact of the cancrum oris on the health-related quality of life of patients which has been underreported in literature. CASE PRESENTATION Herein, we present 3 cases (1 pediatric and 2 adult patients) of cancrum oris. One adult male succumbed to the disease while the remaining two are undergoing treatment. We used the modified versions of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) and the University of Washington-Quality of Life (UWQoL) questionnaire for pediatric and adult patients respectively. CLINICAL DISCUSSION The sequela of cancrum oris affects negatively the quality of life of the patients even after definitive management. Despite this, there is no validated questionnaire to assess the quality of life. The modified versions of the ECOHIS and the UWQoL questionnaires that were used in this case report can be used effectively to assess the HRQoL of the patients. CONCLUSION Cancrum oris is a neglected disease that affects negatively the health-related quality of life of patients who suffer from it, despite medical intervention.
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Farley E, Amirtharajah M, Shaye DA. Noma, a neglected disease: prevention is better than cure. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg 2022; 30:219-225. [PMID: 35906973 DOI: 10.1097/moo.0000000000000819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW There is a need for concerted effort to increase Global awareness about noma (cancrum oris). This paper aims to summarize the recent literature on noma and provide suggestions that could be implemented to raise awareness about this neglected disease. RECENT FINDINGS Noma has been recognized, diagnosed and reported for centuries. Despite significant progress in scientific methods over time, the published literature on noma has predominantly been of low level clinical and scientific evidence. Recent studies have reported on noma's global distribution and its predisposing risk factors, its treatment, its knowledge and beliefs and has included a number of literature reviews. Noma cases are being reported from an increasingly diverse set of geographical locations. SUMMARY Noma has largely been neglected in the research sphere. Noma is a preventable disease and its progression can be halted if patients are recognized and treated in the early stages of disease. Treatment for late stage noma survivors remains complex and time consuming, requiring substantial human and financial resources most commonly not achieving functional and cosmetic anatomy. The ultimate aim is therefore prevention, initiatives should be integrated into existing health programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Farley
- Nudibrink Research Consultancy, Cape Town, South Africa
- Centre for Applied Human Rights, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | | | - David A Shaye
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear
- Department of Global Health & Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Khammissa RAG, Lemmer J, Feller L. Noma staging: a review. Trop Med Health 2022; 50:40. [PMID: 35698243 PMCID: PMC9195207 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-022-00431-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Noma is a bacterial, non-communicable, grossly destructive and disfiguring necrotising oro-facial disease. It is rare, but occurs most commonly in chronically malnourished children with other debilitating illnesses, in remote, poverty-stricken communities, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa, and much more rarely in central Latin America and in parts of Asia. In South Africa and in Zimbabwe, noma is observed, again rarely, in immunosuppressed HIV-seropositive subjects. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified noma into five sequential stages: stage 1, acute necrotising ulcerative gingivitis; stage 2, oedema; stage 3, gangrene; stage 4, scarring; stage 5, sequela. In the opinion of the authors, this WHO classification requires fundamental re-appraisal. The purpose of this viewpoint article is to highlight the weaknesses of this classification, and to propose a simpler, more logical and practical evidence-based staging of noma, which if used should improve the quality and value of future epidemiological data about noma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razia Abdool Gafaar Khammissa
- Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Johan Lemmer
- Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Liviu Feller
- , 111 Portman Place, Fir Avenue, Bantry Bay, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa
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Gezimu W, Demeke A, Duguma A. Noma – a neglected disease of malnutrition and poor oral hygiene: A mini-review. SAGE Open Med 2022; 10:20503121221098110. [PMID: 35707345 PMCID: PMC9190046 DOI: 10.1177/20503121221098110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this review was to describe malnutrition and poor oral hygiene, the most common risk factors for noma. Methods: A vigorous literature searches were conducted on databases such as Scopus, Elsevier, Web of Science, PubMed, Virtual Health Library, and Google Scholar by inserting keywords such as ‘noma’ OR ‘cancrum oris’ OR ‘cancrum oris cases’. A total of 65 articles gathered. Of these, 38 articles found to be eligible for this study. Results: A total of 38 full-length articles were included in the review. According to the evidence gathered and summarized in this review, malnutrition, especially protein-energy malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies, makes the oral mucosa susceptible to opportunistic pathogens of noma, and then, in so doing, pathogens invade the oral cavities. Malnutrition has a bidirectional relationship with noma. Since noma is a disease of the oral cavity, poor oral hygiene has the potential of predispose and worsen the disease’s progress. Conclusion: Malnutrition and poor oral hygiene found to be ingrained in the pathogenesis of noma. For effective management and prevention of noma, it is necessary to underpin adequate nutritional supplementation (including vitamins). As a primary prevention strategy, healthcare workers’ training should be strengthened to improve the diagnosis and treatment of oral infections, including noma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wubishet Gezimu
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Mettu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
| | - Ababo Demeke
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Dilla University, Dilla, Ethiopia
| | - Abdissa Duguma
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Mettu University, Mettu, Ethiopia
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Feller L, Lemmer J, Khammissa RAG. OUP accepted manuscript. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2022; 116:884-888. [PMID: 35576473 PMCID: PMC9526837 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trac043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Noma is a debilitating orofacial necrotizing bacterial disease that disproportionately affects impoverished malnourished persons, particularly young children, the vast majority of whom live in tropical and subtropical areas in sub-Saharan Africa. It has a very high mortality rate; causes significant physical and psychological morbidity, stigmatization and social discrimination; could be prevented, controlled and indeed eliminated by common public health interventions; and is overlooked with regard to public health awareness, in-depth scientific research activities and allocation of funding for prevention, treatment and research. According to the WHO, noma comprises five sequential ‘stages’: (1) necrotizing gingivitis, (2) edema, (3) gangrene, (4) scarring and (5) sequelae. This WHO staging of noma is contentious, leading to diagnostic confusion with misestimation of the number of noma cases reported in epidemiological studies. We therefore suggest a simpler, more practical and scientifically valid two-stage classification comprising only (1) acute noma and (2) arrested noma. Noma meets all the WHO criteria for classification as a neglected tropical disease (NTD). Most survivors of noma live with gross physical disfigurement and disability, and with impaired psychosocial functioning, so they are very often stigmatized and unjustifiably discriminated against. Owing to the paucity of evidence-based epidemiological data on noma, the relatively low number of people affected worldwide, and its apparently limited geographic distribution, noma does not yet feature on the WHO's list of NTDs, or on any global health agenda, and thus has not become a health priority for global action. We strongly support the inclusion of noma within the WHO list of NTDs. Without doubt this will increase the awareness of noma among healthcare providers and promote the systematic international accumulation and recording of data about noma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liviu Feller
- Department of periodontics and Oral Medicine, Corner Dr Savage and Steve Biko Road, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Johan Lemmer
- Department of Oral Medicine and Periodontology, Faculty of Dentistry, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Farley E, Mehta U, Srour ML, Lenglet A. Noma (cancrum oris): A scoping literature review of a neglected disease (1843 to 2021). PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009844. [PMID: 34905547 PMCID: PMC8670680 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Noma (cancrum oris) is an ancient but neglected and poorly understood preventable disease, afflicting the most disenfranchised populations in the world. It is a devastating and often fatal condition that requires urgent and intensive clinical and surgical care, often difficult to access as most cases of noma occur in resource-limited settings. We conducted a scoping review of the literature published on noma to understand the size and scope of available research on the disease and identify research gaps that need to be addressed to evolve our understanding of how to address this disease. Methods We searched 11 databases and collected primary peer reviewed articles on noma in all languages, the final search was conducted on 24th August 2021. The oldest manuscript identified was from 28th March 1843 and the most recently published manuscript was from 3rd June 2021. Search terms included cancrum oris and noma. Data was extracted using a standardised data extraction tool and key areas of interest were identified. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systemic review and Meta-Analyses requirements were followed. Results The review included 147 articles, the majority of the studies (n = 94, 64%) were case reports. Most manuscripts (n = 81, 55%) were published in the 2000s, 49 (33%) were from the 1900s and 17 (12%) from the 1800s. The main areas of interest identified were the history and epidemiology of the disease, noma’s clinical progression and aetiology, treatment regimens, mortality rates and the risk factors for the development of noma. Conclusions Noma has been reported in the literature for hundreds of years; however important gaps in our understanding of the disease remain. Future research should focus on determining the burden and distribution of disease; the true mortality rate, pathogenic cause(s) and the factors that influence prognosis and outcomes after treatment. Noma is a devastating and often fatal condition that mainly affects children in severely disenfranchised communities. Noma is preventable and requires urgent basic medical care in the early stages of disease. Once the disease reaches the last stage, sequelae, survivors require expert surgical care, usually difficult to access as most cases of noma occur in resource-limited settings. We conducted a scoping review of the literature published on noma to understand the size and scope of available research on the disease and to identify research priorities that will evolve our understanding of how to eradicate this disease. Our review showed that noma has been reported in the literature for hundreds of years; however several major gaps in knowledge still exist. There is appreciation among the small community of clinicians and researchers involved in noma care and research that these gaps in knowledge impact on the ability to develop and implement sound evidence-based policies and activities aimed at eradicating noma from communities that continue to be afflicted by this ancient disease. The main focus of future research should be to study the burden and distribution of disease; the true mortality rate, and the pathogenic cause(s) and the factors that influence prognosis and outcomes after treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Farley
- Noma Children’s Hospital, Médecins Sans Frontières, Sokoto, Nigeria
- Nudibrink Research Consultancy, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Ushma Mehta
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | | | - Annick Lenglet
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Ding X, Wang QQ, Zhou Y, Xu JC. Case Report: Malignant Transformation of Noma: Repair by Forearm Flap. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2020; 103:1697-1699. [PMID: 32783790 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.19-0899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Noma is a progressive infectious disease manifested by a necrotic ulcer of the mouth and face. It usually occurs in poor, malnourished children, with about 30,000-140,000 cases each year and a low survival rate. The exact cause of noma remains unclear, but bacterial infection has been postulated to be a major cause of this disease. Antibiotics and improved nutrition could help inhibit the progression of noma, but most patients still require oral surgery because of the bacterial infection-induced tissue damage. In this study, we report an unusual case of a noma patient whose facial lesion developed a malignancy. The necrotic tissue and infectious area were surgically resected, and a forearm flap was used to repair the patient's facial defect. This case aimed at increasing people's awareness of tropical diseases such as noma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Ding
- Department of Stomatology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Qian-Qian Wang
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Editorial Department of Journal of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, China
| | - Jin-Cheng Xu
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical College, Bengbu, Anhui Province, China
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Farley E, Oyemakinde MJ, Schuurmans J, Ariti C, Saleh F, Uzoigwe G, Bil K, Oluyide B, Fotso A, Amirtharajah M, Vyncke J, Brechard R, Adetunji AS, Ritmeijer K, van der Kam S, Baratti-Mayer D, Mehta U, Isah S, Ihekweazu C, Lenglet A. The prevalence of noma in northwest Nigeria. BMJ Glob Health 2020; 5:e002141. [PMID: 32377404 PMCID: PMC7199707 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2019-002141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Noma, a rapidly progressing infection of the oral cavity, mainly affects children. The true burden is unknown. This study reports estimated noma prevalence in children in northwest Nigeria. Methods Oral screening was performed on all ≤15 year olds, with caretaker consent, in selected households during this cross-sectional survey. Noma stages were classified using WHO criteria and caretakers answered survey questions. The prevalence of noma was estimated stratified by age group (0–5 and 6–15 years). Factors associated with noma were estimated using logistic regression. Results A total of 177 clusters, 3499 households and 7122 children were included. In this sample, 4239 (59.8%) were 0–5 years and 3692 (52.1%) were female. Simple gingivitis was identified in 3.1% (n=181; 95% CI 2.6 to 3.8), acute necrotising gingivitis in 0.1% (n=10; CI 0.1 to 0.3) and oedema in 0.05% (n=3; CI 0.02 to 0.2). No cases of late-stage noma were detected. Multivariable analysis in the group aged 0–5 years showed having a well as the drinking water source (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.1; CI 1.2 to 3.6) and being aged 3–5 years (aOR 3.9; CI 2.1 to 7.8) was associated with being a noma case. In 6–15 year olds, being male (aOR 1.5; CI 1.0 to 2.2) was associated with being a noma case and preparing pap once or more per week (aOR 0.4; CI 0.2 to 0.8) was associated with not having noma. We estimated that 129120 (CI 105294 to 1 52 947) individuals <15 years of age would have any stage of noma at the time of the survey within the two states. Most of these cases (93%; n=120 082) would be children with simple gingivitis. Conclusions Our study identified a high prevalence of children at risk of developing advanced noma. This disease is important but neglected and therefore merits inclusion in the WHO neglected tropical diseases list.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Farley
- Noma Children's Hospital, Médecins Sans Frontières, Sokoto, Nigeria.,Department of Public Health Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | | | | | - Cono Ariti
- Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Fatima Saleh
- Department of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Gloria Uzoigwe
- Department of Dentistry, Nigerian Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Karla Bil
- Operational Center Amsterdam Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bukola Oluyide
- Nigeria Mission, Médecins Sans Frontières, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Adolphe Fotso
- Nigeria Mission, Médecins Sans Frontières, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Mohana Amirtharajah
- Operational Center Amsterdam Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Koert Ritmeijer
- Operational Center Amsterdam Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia van der Kam
- Operational Center Amsterdam Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Denise Baratti-Mayer
- Service of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ushma Mehta
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Shafi'u Isah
- Department of Clinical Services, Noma Children's Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Chikwe Ihekweazu
- Department of Surveillance and Epidemiology, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, Abuja, Nigeria
| | - Annick Lenglet
- Operational Center Amsterdam Headquarters, Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Farley E, Lenglet A, Abubakar A, Bil K, Fotso A, Oluyide B, Tirima S, Mehta U, Stringer B. Language and beliefs in relation to noma: a qualitative study, northwest Nigeria. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0007972. [PMID: 31971944 PMCID: PMC6999908 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2019] [Revised: 02/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Noma is an orofacial gangrene that rapidly disintegrates the tissues of the face. Little is known about noma, as most patients live in underserved and inaccessible regions. We aimed to assess the descriptive language used and beliefs around noma, at the Noma Children’s Hospital in Sokoto, Nigeria. Findings will be used to inform prevention programs. Methods Five focus group discussions (FGD) were held with caretakers of patients with noma who were admitted to the hospital at the time of interview, and 12 in-depth interviews (IDI) were held with staff at the hospital. Topic guides used for interviews were adapted to encourage the natural flow of conversation. Emergent codes, patterns and themes were deciphered from the data derived from IDI’s and FGDs. Results Our study uncovered two main themes: names, descriptions and explanations for the disease, and risks and consequences of noma. Naming of the disease differed between caretakers and heath care workers. The general names used for noma illustrate the beliefs and social system used to explain the disease. Beliefs were varied; participant responses demonstrate a wide range of understanding of the disease and its causes. Difficulty in accessing care for patients with noma was evident and the findings suggest a variety of actions taking place before reaching a health center or health worker. Patient caretakers mentioned that barriers to care included a lack of knowledge regarding this medical condition, as well as a lack of trust in seeking medical care. Participants in our study spoke of the mental health strain the disease placed on them, particularly due to the stigma that is associated with noma. Conclusions Caretaker and practitioner perspectives enhance our understanding of the disease in this context and can be used to improve treatment and prevention programs, and to better understand barriers to accessing health care. Differences in disease naming illustrate the difference in beliefs about the disease. This has an impact on health seeking behaviours, which for noma cases has important ramifications on outcomes, due to the rapid progression of the disease. Noma (cancrum oris) is an orofacial gangrene that rapidly disintegrates the hard and soft tissues of the face. Little is known about noma as most cases live in underserved and inaccessible regions. We aimed to assess the language used and beliefs around noma, in northwest Nigeria. Findings will be used to inform prevention programs. Five focus group discussions were held with caretakers of patients with noma admitted to the hospital at the time of interview, and 12 in-depth interviews were held with staff at the hospital. Our study uncovered two main themes: names; descriptions and explanations for the disease, and risks and consequences of noma. Naming of the disease differed between caretakers and heath care workers. Difficulty in accessing care for patients with noma was evident. Barriers to care and lack of knowledge and trust were evident. The impact of noma was not limited to physical presentation; stigmatisation was mentioned as a key difficulty. Differences in disease naming illustrate the difference in beliefs and has an impact on health seeking behaviour, which for noma cases, has severe ramifications due to the rapid progression of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Farley
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Nigeria
- Department of Public Health Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Annick Lenglet
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | | | - Karla Bil
- Médecins Sans Frontières, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Ushma Mehta
- Centre for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Research, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, University of Cape Town
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Feller L, Khammissa RAG, Altini M, Lemmer J. Noma (cancrum oris): An unresolved global challenge. Periodontol 2000 2019; 80:189-199. [PMID: 31090145 PMCID: PMC7328761 DOI: 10.1111/prd.12275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Noma (canrum oris) is a mutilating necrotizing disease of uncertain etiology, but it is accepted that it is caused primarily by a polybacterial infection with secondary ischemia. The consequent necrotizing fasciitis, myonecrosis, and osteonecrosis results in destruction of facial structures with severe functional impairment and disfigurement. It most frequently affects children, particularly in sub‐Saharan Africa, who are malnourished or debilitated by systemic conditions including but not limited to malaria, measles, and tuberculosis; and less frequently debilitated HIV‐seropositive subjects. In the vast majority of cases, in susceptible subjects, noma is preceded by necrotizing stomatitis. However, it has been reported, albeit rarely, that noma can arise without any preceding oral lesions being observed. Noma is not recurrent and is not transmissible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liviu Feller
- Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Razia A G Khammissa
- Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mario Altini
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Johan Lemmer
- Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
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14
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Adeniyi SA, Awosan KJ. Pattern of noma (cancrum oris) and its risk factors in Northwestern Nigeria: A hospital-based retrospective study. Ann Afr Med 2019; 18:17-22. [PMID: 30729928 PMCID: PMC6380110 DOI: 10.4103/aam.aam_5_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Noma (cancrum oris) remains the scourge of children and the “face of poverty” in Sub-Saharan Africa. Recent data on the burden of noma and its risk factors are needed for evaluating and redesigning interventions for its prevention and control. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the pattern of noma and its risk factors in Northwestern Nigeria. Materials and Methods: It was a retrospective study that looked into cases of noma (cancrum oris) admitted into the Noma Children Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria, between January 1999 and December 2011. Information on patients’ bio-data, the site and severity of lesions, and presence of trismus and its severity were extracted from the patients’ case files and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: One hundred and fifty-nine (8.3%) of the 1923 patients admitted to the hospital from January 1999 to December 2011 were diagnosed with fresh noma. The mean age of the patients was 3.0 ± 1.4 years, and majority of them, 139 (87.4%) were aged 1–5 years. The soft-tissue lesions essentially involved multiple sites but most commonly the outer and inner cheeks (84.3%). The most common risk factors identified were measles (47.2%) and protein-energy malnutrition (42.1%). There were rises and falls in the prevalence of noma in the period studied. Conclusion: This study showed a high burden of noma in Northwestern Nigeria, mostly among children aged 1–5 years, and with soft-tissue lesions involving multiple sites. Measles and malnutrition were the major risk factors identified, and the disease trend showed a wave-like pattern. There is an urgent need to eliminate the disease in Nigeria through prevention and control of infectious diseases and malnutrition.
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Ahlgren M, Funk T, Marimo C, Ndiaye C, Alfvén T. Management of noma: practice competence and knowledge among healthcare workers in a rural district of Zambia. Glob Health Action 2018; 10:1340253. [PMID: 28678680 PMCID: PMC5533138 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2017.1340253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Noma is an infectious but opportunistic disease that often results in severe facial disfigurements and mortality if untreated. As noma progresses quickly, early detection and treatment are important to prevent its development. Objectives: The objective of this study was to investigate primary healthcare workers’ knowledge and management of noma in a rural part of Zambia. Methods: A cross-sectional self-completed survey was conducted among 35 healthcare workers from two district hospitals and 15 rural health centres in Serenje District, Zambia. Participants’ practice competences and knowledge were grouped into ‘optimal’, ‘medium’, ‘suboptimal’ and ‘very low’. Results: Most of the healthcare workers stated that they perform mouth examination of a child below five years of age who is suffering from measles, malnutrition or HIV. A majority diagnosed gingivitis correctly and 40% had a medium level of practice competence of the same noma stage. All participants had a suboptimal or very low level on overall practice competence regarding management of noma and two-thirds had a very low level of reported knowledge. Conclusion: General knowledge on noma and competences of diagnosing and treating noma patients was low among healthcare workers. Lack of knowledge could present a barrier for correctly managing noma at an early stage. Improving knowledge among healthcare workers is one way to prevent the development of the disease. In order to prevent noma from the start, actions need to be focussed on improving (oral) hygiene and health education as well. Telemedicine could also be considered as it can help healthcare workers in handling noma patients through enabling communication and exchange of information with specialist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilda Ahlgren
- a Global Health-Health Systems and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Tjede Funk
- a Global Health-Health Systems and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden
| | - Clemence Marimo
- b School of Medicine , Cavendish University Zambia , Lusaka , Zambia
| | - Charlotte Ndiaye
- c Regional Advisor for Oral Health , WHO Regional Office for Africa , Harare , Zimbabwe
| | - Tobias Alfvén
- a Global Health-Health Systems and Policy, Department of Public Health Sciences , Karolinska Institutet , Stockholm , Sweden.,d Sachs' Children and Youth Hospital , Stockholm South General Hospital , Stockholm , Sweden
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16
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Farley E, Lenglet A, Ariti C, Jiya NM, Adetunji AS, van der Kam S, Bil K. Risk factors for diagnosed noma in northwest Nigeria: A case-control study, 2017. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006631. [PMID: 30138374 PMCID: PMC6107110 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Noma (cancrum oris), a neglected tropical disease, rapidly disintegrates the hard and soft tissue of the face and leads to severe disfiguration and high mortality. The disease is poorly understood. We aimed to estimate risk factors for diagnosed noma to better guide existing prevention and treatment strategies using a case-control study design. Methods Cases were patients admitted between May 2015 and June 2016, who were under 15 years of age at reported onset of the disease. Controls were individuals matched to cases by village, age and sex. Caretakers answered the questionnaires. Risk factors for diagnosed noma were estimated by calculating unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and respective 95% confidence intervals (CI) using conditional logistic regression. Findings We included 74 cases and 222 controls (both median age 5 (IQR 3, 15)). Five cases (6.5%) and 36 (16.2%) controls had a vaccination card (p = 0.03). Vaccination coverage for polio and measles was below 7% in both groups. The two main reported water sources were a bore hole in the village (cases n = 27, 35.1%; controls n = 63, 28.4%; p = 0.08), and a well in the compound (cases n = 24, 31.2%; controls n = 102, 45.9%; p = 0.08). The adjusted analysis identified potential risk and protective factors for diagnosed noma which need further exploration. These include the potential risk factor of the child being fed pap every day (OR 9.8; CI 1.5, 62.7); and potential protective factors including the mother being the primary caretaker (OR 0.08; CI 0.01, 0.5); the caretaker being married (OR 0.006; CI 0.0006, 0.5) and colostrum being given to the baby (OR 0.4; CI 0.09, 2.09). Interpretation This study suggests that social conditions and infant feeding practices are potentially associated with being a diagnosed noma case in northwest Nigeria; these findings warrant further investigation into these factors. Noma or cancrum oris is an orofacial gangrene that rapidly disintegrates the hard and soft tissue of the face. Little is known about noma as most cases live in underserved, difficult to reach locations. There is a dearth of literature on the risk factors for the development of noma. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in collaboration with the Nigerian Ministry of Health runs projects at the Noma Children’s Hospital in Sokoto. A case control study was conducted in northwest Nigeria to explore exposures associated with diagnosed noma using unadjusted and adjusted conditional logistic regression models. Potential risk and protective factors for diagnosed noma were identified and these findings need further exploration. The study identified that feeding pap to the child every day was a potential risk factor for diagnosed noma (possibly a proxy for poor variety in the diet). The following potential protective factors for diagnosed noma were identified: the mother being the primary caretaker, the caretaker being married, and colostrum being given to the baby. Noma is a neglected disease, and current risk factors suggest that intervention efforts could be more effective by focussing on access to health care, the benefits of breastfeeding and a varied diet. However, more research is needed in order to better understand the pathogenesis of this disease in order to improve prevention, early detection and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise Farley
- Public Health Department, Médecins Sans Frontières, Operation Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Public Health Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Annick Lenglet
- Public Health Department, Médecins Sans Frontières, Operation Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Cono Ariti
- Centre for Medical Education, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Nma M. Jiya
- Department of Paediatrics, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Adeniyi Semiyu Adetunji
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
- Department of Clinical Services, Noma Children’s Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Saskia van der Kam
- Public Health Department, Médecins Sans Frontières, Operation Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Karla Bil
- Public Health Department, Médecins Sans Frontières, Operation Centre Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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17
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Dar-Odeh N, Fadel HT, Abu-Hammad S, Abdeljawad R, Abu-Hammad OA. Antibiotic Prescribing for Oro-Facial Infections in the Paediatric Outpatient: A Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2018; 7:antibiotics7020038. [PMID: 29693642 PMCID: PMC6022866 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics7020038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There are many reports on the complications associated with antibiotics abuse during the treatment of paediatric patients, particularly those related to antimicrobial resistance. The dental profession is no exception; there is growing evidence that dental practitioners are misusing antibiotics in the treatment of their paediatric patients. This review is directed to dental practitioners who provide oral healthcare to children. It is also directed to medical practitioners, particularly those working in emergency departments and encountering children with acute orofacial infections. A systematic search of literature was conducted to explore the clinical indications and recommended antibiotic regimens for orofacial infections in paediatric outpatients. The main indications included cellulitis, aggressive periodontitis, necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis, and pericoronitis. Amoxicillin was found to be the most commonly recommended antibiotic for short durations of 3–5 days, with metronidazole or azithromycin being the alternative antibiotics in penicillin-sensitive patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najla Dar-Odeh
- Dental College & Hospital, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah 42353, Saudi Arabia.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan.
| | - Hani T Fadel
- Dental College & Hospital, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah 42353, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Rua'a Abdeljawad
- Department of Pediatrics, Ibn Alhaitham Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan.
| | - Osama A Abu-Hammad
- Dental College & Hospital, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawwarah 42353, Saudi Arabia.
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan.
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Abid A, Maatouk F, Berrezouga L, Azodo C, Uti O, El-Shamy H, Oginni A. Prevalence and Severity of Oral Diseases in the Africa and Middle East Region. Adv Dent Res 2017; 27:10-7. [PMID: 26101335 DOI: 10.1177/0022034515582062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This review aims to determine the prevalence and severity of oral health diseases in the Africa and Middle East region (AMER). The profile of oral diseases is not homogeneous across the AMER. There are large disparities between groups. Reliable data are scarce. The prevalence and severity of oral diseases appear to be increasing in the African region, as does associated morbidity. There are substantial differences in inequalities in oral health. Dental caries prevalence is less severe in most African countries than in developed countries, but the high rate of untreated caries reflects the limited resources available and difficulties of access and affordability to essential oral health care services. The prevalence of gingival inflammation is very high in all age groups in several African countries. The prevalence of maxillofacial trauma has increased in many countries, with a wide variation of the incidence and high prevalence of traumatic dental injuries in primary and permanent teeth. Orofacial clefts are among the most common birth defects. Annual incidence of oral cancer is estimated as 25 cases per 100,000 people in Africa. Noma is a major public health problem for the Middle East and North African (MENA) region. Data about human immunodeficiency virus/AIDS are limited, particularly in the MENA region. According to the World Health Organization Regional Committee for Africa report, some fundamental key basic knowledge gaps need to be underlined. They include inequalities in oral health, low priority for oral health, lack of adequate funding, inadequate dental student training, obstacles to medical and dental research, and poor databases. There are very few effective public prevention and oral health promotion programs in the AMER. Universal health coverage is not achievable without scientific research on the effectiveness of health promotion interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Abid
- Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - F Maatouk
- Department of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - L Berrezouga
- Department of Medical Microbiology-Immunology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Monastir & Department of Dental Medicine, F. Bourguiba University Hospital, Monastir, Tunisia
| | - C Azodo
- Department of Periodontics, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Ugbowo, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
| | - O Uti
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - H El-Shamy
- Department of Conservative Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - A Oginni
- Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria
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Simon F, Wolfe SA, Guichard B, Bertolus C, Khonsari RH. Paul Tessier facial reconstruction in 1970 Iran, a series of post-noma defects. J Craniomaxillofac Surg 2015; 43:503-9. [PMID: 25817742 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcms.2015.02.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Revised: 02/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paul Tessier was a pioneering plastic surgeon who founded craniofacial surgery and had an international influence in the field of reconstructive surgery. We reviewed his techniques in the reconstruction of post-noma defects in Iran in the late 1970s. PATIENTS AND METHODS We studied a series of 23 patients operated on by Tessier from 1974 to 1978 in Iran (property of Association Française des Chirurgiens de la Face). They all suffered from noma in childhood with major facial defects. RESULTS Ten suffered from simple lip and cheek defects, nine also from nose defects and four from extensive facial defects. Abbe flaps were used in 15 patients to reconstruct the lips completed by commissuroplasty in six patients. Nose defects were reconstructed with nasofrontal flaps (ten cases). The outer cheek was reconstructed with a rotation flap (four cases), or with a frontotemporal flap (six cases). The inner cheek was reconstructed using a Barron-Tessier myocutaneous flap (ten cases). Of the 23 patients, partial flap necrosis occurred in five cases. CONCLUSIONS Tessier was a pioneering plastic surgeon who used local flaps to reconstruct these important facial defects. He had a high rate of success, although nowadays local flaps are commonly replaced by free flaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Simon
- AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de chirurgie maxillo-faciale, Paris, F-75013, France; UPMC University Paris 06, F-75005, Paris, France.
| | - S Anthony Wolfe
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Miami Children's Hospital, 3100 SW 62 Avenue, ACB #2230, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Benjamin Guichard
- Hôpital Charles-Nicolle, Service de chirurgie maxillo-faciale, Rouen, F-76038, France; Université de Rouen, Rouen, France
| | - Chloé Bertolus
- AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de chirurgie maxillo-faciale, Paris, F-75013, France; UPMC University Paris 06, F-75005, Paris, France
| | - Roman Hossein Khonsari
- AP-HP, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, Service de chirurgie maxillo-faciale, Paris, F-75013, France; UPMC University Paris 06, F-75005, Paris, France
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20
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van Niekerk C, Khammissa RA, Altini M, Lemmer J, Feller L. Noma and cervicofacial necrotizing fasciitis: clinicopathological differentiation and an illustrative case report of noma. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2014; 30:213-6. [PMID: 24304357 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2013.0259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Noma predominantly affects malnourished young children. The pathogenesis of noma is complex and multifactorial, involving interaction between local polybacterial infection on the one hand, and malnutrition, immunosuppression, or systemic bacterial or viral infections on the other hand. Noma is considered to be an opportunistic disease, but the immediate cause is uncertain. Immunosuppression associated with a high HIV load may be an important risk factor in South Africa. Cervicofacial necrotizing fasciitis, on the other hand, occurs mainly in adults. It is frequently a consequence of an odontogenic infection and is characterized by an irregular pattern of rapidly spreading necrosis of fascia, muscle, and skin. We present an unusual case of noma in a 32-year-old malnourished HIV-seropositive female with AIDS in whom, within a period of 3 days, the initial intraoral necrotizing process spread rapidly and caused circular full thickness perforating destruction of the lower lip. Prompt diagnosis and treatment brought about control of the active disease and limited the extension of the established noma and of progression of the disease at other affected oral sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles van Niekerk
- Department of Maxillofacial and Oral Surgery, University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Razia A.G. Khammissa
- Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine, University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mario Altini
- Division of Anatomical Pathology, School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Johan Lemmer
- Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine, University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Liviu Feller
- Department of Periodontology and Oral Medicine, University of Limpopo, Medunsa Campus, Pretoria, South Africa
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