‘Astonishing’ discovery could help save children from deadly disfiguring condition
Summary
Researchers discovered a new type of bacteria linked to noma, a deadly childhood disease that destroys the mouth and face. This finding may help doctors detect and treat noma earlier, potentially saving many children from death or severe disfigurement.Key Facts
- Noma is a deadly disease affecting mainly poor, malnourished children, destroying facial tissues and killing 90% of untreated cases.
- It starts as a sore on the gums and progresses rapidly if untreated.
- The disease mostly occurs in the Sahel region of Africa but also appears elsewhere.
- Scientists from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine studied bacteria in the mouths of 19 Nigerian children with noma.
- They found a new species called Treponema A, which was present in most noma cases studied.
- Researchers do not yet know if Treponema A causes noma or grows because of the disease environment.
- Future tests detecting Treponema A in children with gum disease could allow early treatment to prevent noma development.
- Current treatment uses broad antibiotics, which may lead to drug resistance; targeted treatments could reduce this risk.
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