Correlation Between Clinical Course and Biochemical Analysis in Odontogenic Space Infections

Objective: To correlate the clinical course and biochemical analysis in odontogenic space infections.

Methods: A randomized prospective study was undertaken in 50 patients presenting with infections of odontogenic origin. The data were subjected to statistical analysis to co-relate the values of CRP, WBC count and ESR with the clinical course of odontogenic infections. The statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS Version 17.0 clinical parameters included pain, swelling, mouth opening, dyspnea, dysphagia, hoarseness, body temperature, active discharge, length of hospital stay and number of fascial spaces involved.

Results: There was a significant correlation between all the clinical parameters and biochemical markers preoperatively as well as on various postoperative days.

Conclusion: According to the percentage rate of fall, CRP was considered as the best indicator of clinical course/recovery of the patient, followed by WBC count and ESR, respectively.