Noma

Alternative names:

cancrum oris; gangrenous stomatitis

Symptoms:

• inflammation of the gums and inner cheeks (redness, tenderness, swelling)
• the inflamed area ulcerates if not treated (mouth ulcers, skin ulcers)
• the ulcers develop a foul-smelling drainage, causing breath odor and an odor to the skin
• the tissues begin to die (necrotic)
• eventual destruction of the bones around the mouth cause deformity and loss of teeth

Signs and tests:

Physical examination shows inflamed areas of the mucus membranes, mouth ulcers, and skin ulcers. These ulcers have a foul-smelling drainage. There may be other signs of malnutrition.