Osteopetrosis Complicated by Maxillary Osteomyelitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Maxillary osteomyelitis is a rare phenomenon. If it occurs, evaluation for underlying disease especially osteopetrosis must be considered. Osteomyelitis occurs as a complication in 10% of the cases of osteopetrosis. Case report: This is a case report of maxillary osteomyelitis presented in a 15-year old boy with osteopetrosis. In this case, the disease represented mainly with facial pain and swelling and also drainage from facial skin fistulas in bilateraral infraorbital area and lower eyelids. Diagnosis was confirmed by clinical and radiological findings. Treatment consisted of surgical debridment and intravenous antibiotic therapy which led to partial response. <em>Conclusion</em>: Maxillary osteomyelitis is a rare phenomenon. If it occurs, evaluation for underlying disease especially osteopetrosis must be considered.