Question

A patient presents with an infected mandibular angle fracture. Which of the following bacteria is most commonly associated with infection in such cases?

• A. Streptococcus pyogenes
• B. Staphylococcus aureus
• C. Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• D. Streptococcus mutans

Hint:

Think “Staph = Bone”Staphylococcus aureus is the leading cause of osteomyelitis and infected fractures.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding Infection in Mandibular Fractures.
Mandibular fractures, especially at the angle region, are prone to infection due to contamination from the oral cavity, presence of impacted third molars, and reduced vascularityInfected fractures can progress to osteomyelitis if not properly managed
Step 2: Common Causative Organisms.
Although mixed flora may be present, Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly isolated organism in infected fractures and osteomyelitisIt is known for its ability to invade bone tissue and produce abscess formation
Step 3: Evaluation of Options.
(A) Streptococcus pyogenes: Common in soft tissue infections but less commonly implicated in fracture-related bone infections
(B) Staphylococcus aureus: CorrectMost common pathogen in bone infections including infected mandibular fractures
(C) Pseudomonas aeruginosa: More common in hospital-acquired or immunocompromised infections
(D) Streptococcus mutans: Primarily associated with dental caries, not fracture infections
Step 4: Conclusion.
Therefore, Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly associated bacterium in infected mandibular angle fractures