A Case of Tongue Necrosis Due to Compression from an Intubated Tube and Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation

Abstract

We report a case of tongue necrosis caused by compression from an intubated tube and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The patient, a 59-year-old female, underwent surgery followed by tracheal intubation due to perforation of the sigmoid colon and acute generalized peritonitis. Disseminated intravascular coagulation later occurred and necrosis spreading from the tip to the body of her tongue appeared. After the tube was removed, she received thorough treatment including mucosal cleaning, oral care and application of ointment at this department, resulting in improvement. This case confirmed the need for oral care from the time of intubation after the general condition of a patient worsens.