Cutaneous dental sinus tract, a common misdiagnosis: a case report and review of the literature

Cutis. 2002 Nov;70(5):264-7.

Abstract

Cutaneous sinus tracts of dental origin are often initially misdiagnosed and inappropriately treated because of their uncommon occurrence and the absence of symptoms in approximately half the individuals affected. Patients are often referred with a recurrent or chronic cyst, a furuncle, or an ulcer on the face or neck. Correct diagnosis is based on a high index of suspicion and on radiologic evidence of a periapical root infection. Appropriate treatment results in predictable and rapid healing of these lesions. We present a case report of this common misdiagnosis and a review of the literature with regard to diagnosis and treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cutaneous Fistula / etiology*
  • Cutaneous Fistula / pathology*
  • Cutaneous Fistula / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Periapical Abscess / complications*
  • Periapical Abscess / pathology*
  • Periapical Abscess / therapy
  • Skin Diseases / pathology*