A Hidden Challenge: Tongue Abscess Inducing Trismus in an Older Woman

A 78-year-old female with no significant medical history presented to the emergency department complaining of jaw pain and trismus (lockjaw). Two weeks prior to admission, a lower right denture was inserted during a dental procedure. Subsequently, she gradually developed bilateral lower jaw pain and trismus. Five days prior to admission, she consulted an oral surgeon and was initially diagnosed with bilateral temporomandibular joint disorder. Two days prior to admission, the pain in her left jaw and trismus worsened, leading to inability to eat or drink orally.
Source: The American Journal of Medicine - Category: General Medicine Authors: Tags: Diagnostic Dilemma Source Type: research