A rare case of candida osteomyelitis of the mandible associated with osteoradionecrosis and biofilm formation

Abstract

Candida osteomyelitis, in general, is a relatively rare manifestation compared to its bacterial counterparts. The mandible's involvement is rarer, lacking established management and fewer guidelines. Herein, we aim to illustrate the significant challenge in treatment, namely due to the persistent and resistant nature of Candida albicans-associated biofilm. A multidisciplinary approach involving adjunctive use of antifungals with surgical interventions is typically necessary and feasible in this case. However, surgical interventions may not always be possible in challenging instances in which the patient may be structurally (including osteoradionecrosis) and vascularly compromised, raising questions about the feasibility of standard-of-care as well as the success of alternative therapies aimed at disrupting biofilm formation. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for complicating, deep-seated Candidiasis in at-risk populations and endeavor to treat as aggressively as possible to limit recurrent disease owing to persistence.