Long-term outcomes after primary osteomyelitis of the mandibular condyle occurring in early infancy: a case report and literature review

Primary osteomyelitis of the mandibular condyle is exceptionally rare. The case of a 5-month-old infant with primary osteomyelitis of the condyle, who was followed up over 6 years and avoided the devastating sequelae of temporomandibular joint ankylosis and mandibular growth impairment, is reported here. The patient presented with acute swelling, fever, and trismus, leading to the diagnosis of acute primary osteomyelitis through clinical and radiological findings. This was treated successfully with a minor surgical intervention and antibiotics. The reported case, in combination with a literature review, underscores the importance of early, multimodal diagnosis and appropriate treatment in primary osteomyelitis of the mandibular condyle in infants, highlighting the potential for favourable outcomes even in severe cases. This report contributes to the scarce literature on the subject and offers recommendations for follow-up care to help prevent long-term complications.