Cancrum oris and hemiparesis in a young female patient—a case report

Abstract

Key Clinical Message Noma is still around today and can be deadly if ignored. Prompt identification and comprehensive care are essential for averting permanent impairments and disfigurements. Abstract Noma is a rapid developing orofacial gangrene and a disabling disease that primarily affects young children who live in dangerous conditions. Underlying diseases such as HIV/AIDS and malnutrition can enhance the likelihood of Noma's emergence. This is a case of a 9‐year‐old girl patient who arrived malnourished and with an ulcerating communicating right mandibular soft tissue lesion as well as right hemiparesis which had an acute onset. The patient was likewise HIV positive discovered upon admission, possibly as a result of vertical transmission, and was an ART (antiretroviral therapy) treatment naive patient. A holistic treatment plan was installed and a positive clinical response was observed. Early treatment is key in Noma management.

Keywords

• ART treatment naïve patient
• cancrum oris
• hemiparesis
• vertical transmission