[Diffuse sclerosing osteomyelitis of the mandible and SAPHO syndrome].

Abstract

We compared our series with those reported in the literature, emphasizing diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties. Diffuse sclerosing osteomyelitis of the mandible should be distinguished from microbial osteitis. Early diagnosis is required to avoid successive and unnecessary dental avulsions. There is a possible link between DSOM and SAPHO and all patients should have a complete work-up including whole-body scintigraphy to search for other foci. A biopsy is indicated to rule out malignancy. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs can improve patient comfort in this particularly long syndrome. Although the efficacy is demonstrated, surgery and antibiotics can only delay relapse for a few months.