Orofacial radiographic manifestations in patients with sickle cell disease

Sickle cell disease (SCD) may manifest with various phenotypes. Radiographic imaging plays a critical role in diagnosing and managing complications associated with SCD. This study aims to investigate orofacial radiographic features in patients with SCD and to compare these findings with those in matched healthy controls. A total of 52 patients with SCD were included, along with 52 healthy individuals in an age- and sex-matched control group. The demographic data and medical histories of the participants were recorded. Panoramic, cephalometric, periapical, and bitewing radiographs were obtained by certified dental practitioners. Radiographic features were identified and compared between the study and control groups as well as across SCD subtypes. These features were then correlated with the systemic complications reported by the patients. Data were analyzed using chi-square and Fisher exact tests (P < 0.05). Patients with SCD exhibited generalized osteopenia, enlarged medullary spaces, thinning/scalloping of the inferior border of the mandible, and radiopaque lesions significantly more frequently than did individuals in the control group. No statistically significant differences were found among the SCD subtypes, and there were no significant correlations between radiographic features and disease complications. Identification of these radiographic indicators and greater knowledge of their pathogenesis and association with systemic complications will enhance the role of dentists in the comprehensive medical care of patients with SCD.