Emergency Treatment of Submandibular Abscess Spreading to Buccal and Submental Spaces in Uncontrolled Diabetic Patients: A Case Study

Abstract

Introduction: Dental infections can extend to the maxillofacial space causing severe infections such as abscesses. Abscess in the maxillofacial space aggravated by the systemic disease of diabetes mellitus can delay healing and cause further complications. This case report discusses the emergency treatment of a submandibular abscess that extends to the buccal and submental spaces in a patient with diabetes mellitus. Case Report: A 41-year-old female patient came to the Emergency Department of Hasan Sadikin Hospital in Bandung, complaining of swelling on the right cheek. The swelling was felt for seven days which started in the right submandibular area and extended to the right cheek and submental area. The patient had a history of diabetes mellitus for eight years, and on arrival, his current blood sugar was 365 mg/dL. The patient was diagnosed with a submandibular abscess that extends to the right buccal and submental area with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Treatment includes a drainage incision, Penrose drain, extraction of the causative tooth, and administration of ceftriaxone, metronidazole, ketorolac, and omeprazole drugs. Conclusion: Submandibular abscess that extends to several maxillofacial spaces is an emergency condition that requires immediate management to prevent the spread of infection to other tissues, which can cause mortality.

Keywords: Abscess, Submandible, Buccal, Submental, Diabetes Mellitus