Surgical management of chronic osteomyelitis with benign osteopetrosis: A case report

INTRODUCTION: Osteopetrosis is a rare genetic bone disease caused by a functional abnormality of the osteoclasts. Until now there is no codified management for the complications of this pathology and few cases cited in the literature. PRESENTATION OF CASE: a 19-year-old adult followed in our maxillofacial surgery department in the IBN ROCHD University Hospital for chronic osteomyelitis complicating mandibular osteopetrosis with skin fistulas. Patient operated several times. The persistence of osteomyelitis prevents the installation of a dental prosthesis and the appearance of new fistulas with continuous flow of pus alters the patient's quality of life. DISCUSSION: Osteopetrosis is a group of rare genetic diseases characterized by osteoclastic insufficiency, poor bone remodeling and increased bone density. the benign form of osteopetrosis called Albers-Schönberg disease. It is a genetically inherited autosomal dominant disease. The large number of surgical interventions and the use of antibiotics for long periods of time (risk of development of resistance) significantly reduces the quality of life of patients. We must seek other measures to improve the prognosis and codify management. CONCLUSION: In osteopetrosis, the maxillofacial surgeons should be aware about the early diagnosis and the appropriate management of the signs and prevent complications.