Mandibular infarction occurring during a sickle cell crisis.

The genetic abnormality and clinical problems associated with sickle cell disease are described and exemplified by a report of a patient who presented during a crisis with facial pain and sensory changes in the distribution of the inferior dental nerve; investigations revealed that these were due to infarction of part of the mandible. Although similar cases have been described, it is believed that the radionuclide scan of the mandible in the investigation of this patient uniquely demonstrated the position and extent of the infarcted area. The management of patients with sickle cell disease in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery is discussed.