Osteomyelitis of the Mandible

The term “mandibular osteomyelitis” nearly always refers to infection of the bone, and most cases arise from an odontogenic source. Some cases follow trauma, radiation, or medication-related bony necrosis. Early diagnosis of mandibular osteomyelitis can be difficult, and treatment often requires both surgical and medical management. Some cases of chronic osteomyelitis, such as chronic diffuse sclerosing osteomyelitis, SAPHO syndrome, and chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis, have a noninfectious, inflammatory etiology. This review focuses on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of various types of mandibular osteomyelitis.