Cutaneous odontogenic sinus.

Abstract

A case report and discussion of cutaneous odontogenic sinus tracts, frequently encountered but often misdiagnosed and mistreated, are presented. Awareness that periapical dental abscesses are the most common etiologic factor of cutaneous sinus tracts involving the face and neck will facilitate their early diagnosis and prevent needless treatment or anxiety for the patient. These lesions are often misinterpreted as chronic, resistant to therapy, pyogenic nodules, or granulomas. A high degree of suspicion is required for making the correct diagnosis, and dental roentgenographic studies should routinely be obtained in all such lesions. Permanent healing cannot be achieved unless the original site of infection is located and eradicated.