Sickle cell osteomyelitis: A novel approach and review of the literature

Abstract

Aim: Sickle cell disease is a well-recognized risk factor for the development of osteomyelitis. Its occurrence in the mandible is both complex and challenging. Antibiotics and surgery remain the main treatment modalities, but both have varying success in refractory osteomyelitis. With increasing individual clinical cases highlighting the successful management of both primary and secondary chronic osteomyelitis with bisphosphonate therapy, it was considered a viable last line trial medication prior to aggressive surgery in refractory sickle cell osteomyelitis.Materials and methods: Two cases are retrospectively reported for the use of oral bisphosphonates.Results: Both cases showed positive outcomes both clinically and radiographically in response to oral bisphosphonates with no recurrence of acute episodes even on the background of recurring sickle crises. Conclusion:The current cases are the first in the literature to report successful management of sickle cell osteomyelitis with oral bisphosphonates and explores the literature on previous reports of the condition.