Predisposing factors,clinical presentation and outcome of treatment of avulsive human bites on the face: a case series analysis from Abuja,Nigeria

Background

Human bite can be classified as occlusive or non-occlusive. Occlusive bites are seldom reported to occur outside the facial region. This study aims to analyze cases of avulsive human bite and find which part of the face is the most frequently involved in such cases. The findings may indicate which part of the face is generally perceived as the most critical in judging attractiveness.

Methods

This retrospective study was carried out using a data review of all consecutive avulsive facial human bite cases seen in the maxillofacial surgery unit, National Hospital Abuja, between February 2001 and January 2014. Uniform protocol of prophylactic oral antibiotic and anti-tetanus cover was ensured throughout the study period.

Results

Seventeen cases were included in this study. Amorous jealousy was the cause of altercation in 15 (88.2 %) cases. Twelve (70.6 %) cases involved the lip. There were eight female and nine male victims. There were nine female and eight male assailants.

Conclusions

The lip is the most frequently affected region of the face in avulsive human bite attacks in our environment. This may be because it is considered the most important anatomical region of the face on which judgment of attractiveness is based. Level of evidence: Level IV, prognostic/risk study.