Melioidosis masquerading as dental space infection in an immunocompromised patient: A case report and review of literature

Introduction: Burkholderia pseudomallei (melioidosis) can mimic odontogenic infections and is hazardous in immunocompromised hosts. Methods/Case: Case report of a rapidly progressive dental-space infection in an immunocompromised patient; diagnosis via CECT and microbiology (blood culture and pus; organism identification). Results: Identification of B. pseudomallei led to surgical management plus targeted IV ceftazidime with marked improvement and no relapse at follow-up. Conclusions: In endemic areas and immunocompromised patients, melioidosis should be included in differential diagnoses of severe dental space infections; prompt microbiology and targeted therapy are critical.