THE ROLE OF FERRITIN LEVELS IN BLOOD FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF PATIENTS WITH PHLEGMON IN THE MAXILLOFACIAL REGION

Resume. Iron plays a critical role in tissue trophism through its involvement in hemoglobin synthesis. A deficiency of iron in blood plasma and bone marrow impairs hemoglobin production, leading to iron deficiency anemia, which can hinder the regenerative and immune responses of affected tissues. This study involved 211 patients aged 28–43 years, all diagnosed with maxillofacial inflammatory conditions, and treated at the Department of Maxillofacial and Plastic Surgery, BRMMC. Of these, 93 patients constituted the control group, while 118 patients formed the main (study) group. The distribution of cases included 52 patients with purulent phlegmon of the upper jaw, 51 with purulent periostitis of the upper jaw, and 44 with purulent periostitis of the lower jaw. Additionally, 64 patients presented with purulent phlegmon localized to the lo-wer left jaw, including cases of retromolar purulent periostitis. The main group received the standard therapeutic regimen supplemented with oral iron therapy (Gyno-Tardiferon) and a mouth rinse using a decoction prepared from Covulla root, administered ten times daily. The adjunctive therapy resulted in improved oxygenation and blood supply to the affected tissues, leading to a reduction in hyperemia at incision sites. Furthermore, clinical observations noted improved sleep quality, enhanced alertness, and overall increased patient vitality. The herbal decoction—comprising roots, leaves, and seeds-exhibited multifaceted therapeutic effects, including analgesic, antibacterial, antiseptic, and microbiota-modulating properties. These outcomes highlight the beneficial role of iron supplementation and phytotherapy in enhancing immune response, promoting wound healing, and restoring systemic homeostasis in patients with odontogenic infections. Keywords: Blood plasma, iron supplementation, hemoglobin, medicinal plants, odontogenic infection, phlegmon, periostitis, maxillofacial inflammation.