Cancrum oris: Noma

Noma: Causes, Signs, and Treatment Noma, also known as cancrum oris, is a severe and rapidly progressive infection that affects the face, particularly the mouth and jaw area. It primarily impacts the overall health and well-being of individuals, leading to devastating consequences if left untreated. Noma (canrum oris) is a mutilating necrotizing disease of uncertain etiology, but it is accepted that it is caused primarily by a polybacterial infection with secondary ischemia. The consequent necrotizing fasciitis, myonecrosis, and osteonecrosis ... Noma, also known as cancrum oris, is a rapidly progressing infection of the oral cavity, with a reported 90% mortality rate if untreated. Treatment with antibiotics, wound debridement and nutritional support in the early reversible stages of the disease greatly reduces mortality and morbidity. Cancrum oris or noma usually begins as an ulcer on gums (the tissues that support your teeth) and rapidly spreads into the jawbone, cheek, and soft tissues of the face. This is followed by death of the facial tissues and fatal sepsis.