Cancrum Oris also known as Noma or Gangrenous Stomatitis, is a gangrenous disease leading to tissue destruction of the face, especially the mouth and cheek.
The mucous membranes of the mouth develop ulcers, and rapid but painless tissue degeneration ensues, which can degrade tissues of the bones in the face.
In this condition, Cancrum Oris can also cause tissue damage to the genitals. The disease is associated with high morbidity and mortality and mainly affects children under the age of twelve in the poorest countries of Africa. Children in Asia and some countries of South America are also affected.
Most children who get the disease are between the ages of two and six years old. Estimates claim that 80 - 90% of sufferers die.