Osteomyelitis der Kieferknochen

Osteomyelitis of the jaw is a complex disease entity that is not always easy to diagnose. Due to the anatomical features of the jawbone and the microbiology of the oral cavity, it differs significantly from osteomyelitis of other skeletal areas. Simplistically, osteomyelitis of the jaw can be divided into a bacterial, purulent form and a nonbacterial, sterile form. Patients with immunocompromising pre-existing conditions and poor dental status appear to be predisposed. Prevention therefore includes optimal oral hygiene and adequate treatment of dentogenic infections. Despite good dental and medical care throughout the country and the widespread availability of antibiotics, treatment-refractory cases with protracted courses and extensive bone and tooth loss frequently occur. The treatment options and the associated chances of success differ significantly depending on the form of osteomyelitis. Therefore, an early and correct diagnosis as well as prompt initiation of an adequate treatment is of utmost importance.