Osteomyelitis

Osteomyelitis of the jaws differs significantly from osteomyelitis at other skeletal sites. These differences are due to a different group of pathogens, the presence of teeth, a different blood vessel density, an oral environment and a thin mucosa as opposed to skin. These differences are also related in the confusing array of terms used to describe the different forms of jaw osteomyelitis. Despite the availability of an antibiotic therapy and an improved dental and medical provision, the development of microorganisms resistant to commonly used antibiotics and the increased number of immunocompromised patients have led again to an increase of cases refractory to standard treatments. Especially older patients with risk factors such as vascular diseases, diabetes mellitus and poor oral hygiene can be affected.