A previously unknown species of bacteria found in patients with noma could be key to creating treatments for the neglected tropical disease

The “astonishing” discovery of a new bacterium could open the door to better ways to prevent, detect and treat a fatal and disfiguring childhood disease, researchers hope.

Noma, which is fatal in 90% of cases without treatment, begins as a sore on the gums but goes on to destroy the tissues of the mouth and face.