Winter 2021: Daunting Diagnosis
Question:
A 64-year-old male, who is a heavy smoker, presents to the ED with acute mouth pain. He states that he has been under tremendous stress and has not been caring for himself lately. The patient complains that his gums are tender and have been bleeding. His dental exam is below. What does this patient have?
Answer:
This patient is suffering from acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG). Dentistry was consulted, who performed a bedside debridement of the dead gum tissue. Metronidazole was prescribed for outpatient care. The patient was counseled on proper oral hygiene, including daily mouth rinses. A follow up dental appointment was made for the patient to monitor his progress. ■
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This article is published in EMpulse Winter 2021. See the full version of the print magazine online here.
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