Starting on:
Nov 11, 2025
Ending on:
Nov 11, 2025
Moderator(s):
Max Credits:
3 Points
Provider:
Kenya Dental Association
Claim Points
Nov 11, 2025
Ending on:
Nov 11, 2025
Moderator(s):
Dr.
Timothy Theuri
Dental Surgeon Immediate Past President Kenya Dental Association
Venue: Dental Surgeon Immediate Past President Kenya Dental Association
Max Credits:
3 Points
Provider:
Kenya Dental Association
Claim Points
LOCAL AND SYSTEMIC PROGRESSION OF FASCIAL SPACE INFECTIONS OF THE HEAD AND NECK
Starting on:
Nov 11, 2025
Nov 11, 2025
Ending on:
Nov 11, 2025
Nov 11, 2025
Venue:
Description
Fascial space infections are common emergencies that occur as a result of both odontogenic and non-odontogenic infections. Common causes include trauma to the teeth and jaws; periodontal abscesses; gross caries; perio-endo lesions and peri-implantitis. Space infection requires early diagnosis and prompt management to avoid contiguous spread and systemic infections. Early treatment options are non-invasive and include use of antibiotics (penicillins, amoxyclav, tetracyclins, metronidazole); analgesics (Anamol - aceclopfenac/paracetamol) and auxiliary medicaments such as Rexedine (povidone iodine) and CHX (chlorhexidine).
Objectives
Fascial space infections in the head and neck region are commonly treated by surgical incision and drainage; and debridement, along with antibiotic/ analgesic therapies and removal of the causative factor. The surgical incision and drainage of an abscess for example, may result in residual pain, tissue trauma, scarring and prolonged inpatient admissions and outpatient appointments.
To avoid complications of invasive procedures and as an adjunct to the inevitable, pharmacological management remains a key intervention pillar for head and neck infections.
Presenters
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Prof.
Elizabeth Dimba
Elizabeth Dimba is an associate professor of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine at the University of Nairobi.