Gangrenous stomatitis (Noma): What is it? Causes, Symptoms and Therapy

gangrenous (or noma) is a serious, rapidly progressive disease originating from the mucous membranes of the mouth.

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The causes are still poorly defined, but it seems that this condition is supported by an "infection of the soft tissues of the face.

Typically, the disease begins within one cheek or on the gums, with ulceration, edema and spontaneous bleeding. These initial lesions degenerate rapidly and lead to gangrene that tends to spread rapidly, penetrating into tissues (including bones and teeth). and destroying them.

Gangrenous stomatitis mainly affects preschool children, who live in the poorest countries of Africa.

The progression of the noma can be stopped with the use of antibiotics, the improvement of nutrition and the correction of dehydration. However, the effects of the degenerative disease process are permanent and the repair of disfiguring scars requires reconstructive surgery.

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