The Use of Zinc Peroxide in Infected Tumors and Radiation Necrosis

THE mouth contains a variety of anaerobic and micro-aerophilic organisms which under normal conditions are harmless saprophytes. However, when oral tissues become devitalized or diseased these same bacteria may cause an infection which is painful, debilitating, and resistant to treatment. The condition is characterized by a fetid odor and necrosis of tissue to form thick adherent slough, without a great deal of purulent discharge, unless there is secondary deep abscess formation. This type of infection so frequently accompanies tumors of the oral, nasal, and paranasal cavities that it has become one of the major problems in their management. The complication may occur in the primary tumor, in a post-operative cavity or surgical defect, or in an area of necrosis resulting from roentgen or radium therapy. Once the process has gained a firm foothold, it is difficult to overcome by ordinary measures. Instrumental removal of slough is inadequate. The usual oxygenic agents such as sodium perborate, potassium chlo...