INFLAMMATORY PROCESSES IN THE MAXILLOFACIAL REGION FOLLOWING COVID-19: PATHOGENESIS, CLINICAL FEATURES, DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

The global spread of COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has led not only to acute respiratory disease but also to a wide range of post-infectious complications affecting multiple organ systems. Among these, inflammatory conditions in the maxillofacial region have emerged as a significant clinical concern. These complications include sialadenitis, osteomyelitis, mucormycosis, and temporomandibular joint disorders, often associated with immune dysregulation, endothelial damage, and secondary infections. The aim of this study is to investigate the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and modern treatment strategies for inflammatory diseases of the maxillofacial region following COVID-19. A combined retrospective and prospective analysis of 120 patients was conducted, along with a review of recent scientific literature. The results indicate that post-COVID inflammatory complications are closely linked to immune suppression, corticosteroid therapy, and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus. Early diagnosis and interdisciplinary management significantly improve outcomes. The study highlights the need for standardized clinical protocols for the management of post-COVID maxillofacial inflammation.