Chronic extra-oral cutaneous sinus infection in a child: case report

An extra-oral sinus is often assumed to be of non-odontogenic pathology and is rarely seen in paediatric patients, so inappropriate management often results. This case report highlights factors surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of extra-oral cutaneous sinus tracts as a manifestation of intra-oral pathology. Because this condition is rare, it is often misdiagnosed, which can result in inappropriate referrals (e.g. to dermatology teams, overtreatment with surgery or treatment with antibiotics), leading to recurrence. These patients should be referred to a specialist in paediatric dentistry for management. The importance of rigorous clinical investigation, appropriate referral and interdisciplinary management in paediatric patients is illustrated. In this case, elimination of dental infection led to complete resolution. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Dental practitioners should consider infection of odontogenic origin as a differential diagnosis when a child presents with an extra-oral draining cutaneous sinus tract.