Odontogenic thrombophlebitis of the facial vein at the Sangmelima Reference Hospital: a case report

Abstract

Odontogenic facial thrombophlebitis is a rare vascular disorder characterised by obstruction of the vein by a blood clot. The pathognomonic sign is palpation of an indurated cord running from the nasolabial fold to the internal angle of the eye. The authors report the case of a septuagenarian with a history of rheumatoid arthritis on long term corticosteroids. The symptoms that had prompted the initial consultation worsened during the course of correctly conducted outpatient management. The diagnosis of thrombophlebitis was made on palpation of an indurated cord in the course of the facial vein. Management consisted of hospitalisation, antibiotic therapy, analgesia, heparin
therapy and tooth extraction. The patient was discharged on day 10. Follow-up was carried out for 2 months and a partial removable prosthesis was fitted. The importance of this case lies in the early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of this pathology, thereby preventing complications. These complications can be fatal.