[Relationship between radiology and prognosis in sarcoma of jaw]

A new radiologic grading based on the comprehensive studies of radiographs of 76 cases of jaw bone sarcomas is suggested. Cortical expansion or sclerotic rim is regarded as grade 1, localized destruction with sharp edges as grade 2, moth-eaten destruction as grade 3, and diffuse destruction as grade 4. A close relationship exists between the rate of 5 year survival and the radiologic grading which is considered to be one of the four main X-ray criteria for evaluation of prognosis. The other 3 criteria are the extent of destruction, the tumor location, and the changes of the teeth and periodontal space.