Noma

The death of tissue in the lips and cheeks due to bacterial infection. Also called cancrum oris, it is largely confined to young, severely malnourished children in developing countries. Noma can also occur in the last stages of leukaemia. Without treatment, noma causes severe ulceration, eventual destruction of the bones around the mouth, and loss of teeth. Healing occurs naturally, but scarring may be severe. Antibacterial drugs and improved nutrition halt the progress of the disease.