Les cellulites cervico-faciales chez le diabétique

A total of 17 patients (9 women, 8 men) were admitted in our department for cervicofacial cellulitis during this period. Mean age was 45 years. All patients had a poor glycemic control and were admitted in ketosis or ketoacidosis with fever and bad general condition. Majority of the infections had dental origin. Damages were mainly in the form of inflammatory swelling and painful cervicofacial thickening. Bacteriological testing done in all patients revealed germs in 5 cases only. A cervicothoracic CT-scan allowed to do an extension assessment, assisted for treatment and follow up. Panoramic Rx was needed when dental origin was suspected. Treatment was based on intensified insulin therapy, rehydration, antibiotic treatment, drainage, and intensive care. A rigorous multidisciplinary approach is necessary to limit the risk of severe complications.