Warfarin-induced Sublingual Swelling: A Case of Pseudo-Ludwig Angina

Abstract

Pseudo-Ludwig angina is a swelling that develops generally due to a cause other than an infection and can lead to fatal conditions such as severe respiratory obstruction. Due to anticoagulant use is rarely reported in the literature. This study presented a patient whose INR value was within the normal range and who developed sublingual swelling after dental treatment (intraoral trauma). A 68-year-old female patient was admitted to the emergency department complaining of increasing intraoral swelling on examination with a sublingual 3x5 cm hematoma. Warfarin was stopped, and she was monitored for possible intubation risk in the service. The patient did not develop respiratory distress and was discharged 4 days later. The INR range within which intraoral interventions can be performed safely is still unclear. The dentist should keep in mind that such complications may develop and be prepared for bleeding complications before treatment using warfarin patients.