Chronic Osteomyelitis of the Jaw. Osteomyelitis.

Background: Chronic osteomyelitis of the jaw is an inflammatory reaction of bone tissue of infectious origin that affects the medullary cavity. The main causes of osteomyelitis are odontogenic or traumatic. Material and Methods: Bibliographic research, the following electronic databases have been searched: Pubmed Medline and the Chochrane Library Plus. Results: Clinical symptoms are pain, inflammation, suppuration, intraoral or extraoral drainage fistulas. Bone and soft tissues that do not respond favorably to treatment, potentially can lead to bone sequestra. Diagnosis should include a histopathological study throughout a proper biopsy. Identifying the responsible microorganisms is not easy, as the sample can be contaminated by nearby sites. However, a presumptive diagnosis can be made through clinical and radiographic evaluation. Treatment for osteomyelitis involves eliminating the source of infection and necrotic tissue, establishing drainage, restoring blood supply, and controlling the infection with appropriate antimicrobial therapy. Broad-spectrum antibiotics like penicillin or clindamycin are often prescribed initially, but the regimen may be adjusted based on the microbiological findings. Conclusions: Long-term antibiotic therapy is generally required, ranging from 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the severity and chronicity of the infection.