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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
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Systematic Assessment of Mammalian Skull Specimens for Dental and Temporomandibular Joint Pathology
Published on: August 22, 2022
Incidental bony pathology when reporting trauma orthopantomograms.
M Macanovic1, S Gangidi, G Porter
1Derriford Hospital NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK. mladenmaca@gmail.com
Clinical Radiology
|August 28, 2010
Summary
Radiologists should recognize common mandible pathologies on plain films, including odontogenic cysts and tumors, as well as non-odontogenic conditions like osteonecrosis. Awareness of these appearances aids in diagnosing incidental findings in trauma patients.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Pathology
Background:
- Orthopantomograms (OPTs) are crucial for evaluating the mandible, especially in trauma cases.
- Incidental pathologies on these imaging studies require radiologist expertise for accurate interpretation.
- Familiarity with common odontogenic and non-odontogenic lesions is essential for clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the plain film appearances of common odontogenic and non-odontogenic jaw pathologies.
- To highlight the clinical significance of these lesions for radiologists.
- To provide a foundation for understanding pathogenesis, epidemiology, and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Focus on plain film radiography of the mandible.
- Illustrate common odontogenic lesions: radicular cyst, odontogenic keratocyst, dentigerous cyst, ameloblastoma.
- Include non-odontogenic pathologies: bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ), chronic osteomyelitis.
Main Results:
- Detailed plain film characteristics of selected common jaw pathologies are presented.
- The review emphasizes the importance of recognizing these lesions on routine imaging.
- Discussion includes pathogenesis, epidemiology, and treatment principles.
Conclusions:
- Radiologists must be adept at identifying common mandibular pathologies on plain films.
- Early recognition of these lesions, whether odontogenic or non-odontogenic, impacts patient care.
- This review serves as a guide to the radiological appearances and clinical significance of these conditions.
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