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Geniospasm is a rare and generally benign movement disorder of the chin yet with potentially debilitating complications. Due to its rarity, previous literature was limited to only case reports or series with critical knowledge gap on its natural history, prognosis, and management. We aimed to establish the natural history, prognosis, and treatment for geniospasm.A systematic review on case reports or series was performed with literature search on PubMed and Google Scholar, from inception through December 2021. The quality of the reports was assessed with low-quality articles excluded for analyses other than demographics.Forty-one articles were included for demographic analysis (n = 489) while forty articles for other analyses (n = 451). There was only slight male preponderance of this disease in our cohort (Male:Female = 1.2:1) with 98.6% having family history of geniospasm, 68.1% having onset below 1 year of age, 91.4% having emotional triggers of the symptoms, 25.7% having geniospasm in sleep, 100% involving mentalis muscles, 4.9% involving muscles adjacent to mentalis, 55.2% having regular paroxysms (≥1/week, but brief in 56.3% of the cases) and only 11.1% having complications. The paroxysms reduced with age, but complete remission only happened in 9.9%. Females (p = 0.010) and those without geniospasm in sleep (p = 0.048) were associated with good outcome of the disease. Geniospasm was usually refractory to treatment except for regular botulinum toxin injections.Generally, geniospasm improved with age but complete remission was rare. Considering our review limitations, our findings should be interpreted with caution. Future studies of higher evidence level are crucial.

The purpose of this retrospective study was to investigate whether the thicknesses of the two rami differ in patients with mandibular asymmetry. Preoperative cone beam computed tomography scans of 78 patients with mandibular asymmetry were assessed for ramus thickness, mandibular length, and mandibular shift. The results showed that the ramus was thinner on the longer side than on the shorter side in 85.9% of the patients. On average, the longer side of the mandible was 2.74mm longer (range 0.07-9.90mm, standard deviation 1.92mm) and 0.55mm thinner (range -0.61 to 2.02mm, standard deviation 0.59mm) than the shorter side (both P

Background Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the jaw is currently defined by the development of osteonecrosis in head/neck irradiated patients, regardless of lesion exposure. To diagnose medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), a history of any radiation therapy to the jaw region must be ruled out. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of current osteonecrosis criteria, while introducing new modifications for improved diagnosis and treatment. Methods One hundred and forty-one necrotic lesions were analyzed from patients exposed to bone-modifying agents (BMAs) and/or received head and neck regional radiation therapy, where the maximal dose of radiation exposure to the jaw osteonecrosis site was calculated. Modified diagnostic criteria were used to reassess all cases and a comparison of outcomes was performed using Pearson’s Chi-Square/Fisher’s exact test. Results Only in patients with primary head and neck carcinomas did the maximal mean radiation dose in the necrotic jaw site reach ranges associated with ORN formation (>40 Gy), with individual cases showing exposures as low as 0–2 Gy. Based on the modified diagnostic criteria almost 2/3 of the necrotic cases diagnosed as ORN should be diagnosed as MRONJ. Conclusions ORN diagnosis should only be considered in cases of radiation exposure >40 Gy to prevent misdiagnosis and suboptimal treatment. A modified criterion for MRONJ diagnosis is recommended where radiation exposure 40 Gy and BMA administration, an additional modification to diagnostic criteria of ‘medication- and radiation-related osteonecrosis of the jaw’, should be used.

Osteoradionecrosis of the jaw (ORNJ) is one of the most devastating and progressive complications of head and neck radiotherapy. It can cause emaciation, deformity, and pathological fractures, resulting in decreased quality of life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the preoperative index and outcomes of treatment for ORNJ. A retrospective study of 252 ORNJ cases treated at one institution between January 2010 and January 2018 was made. The abnormal items from the preoperative examination and follow-up after different treatments were recorded, and the differences between the noteworthy items were compared using univariate and multivariate models. Most ORNJ patients in the middle and late stages had abnormal items, such as hypoproteinaemia, anaemia, and leucocytosis. Partial mandibulectomy with flap reconstruction was significantly more effective than without reconstruction. Advanced ORNJ patients tended to have more abnormal items, which might have a negative influence on treatment. For better outcomes, it is essential and effective to completely remove the necrotic lesion and reconstruct it with a flap. The surgeons should provide sufficient perioperative management and strive for suitable surgical treatment.

The link between medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) and bone modulating drugs, such as bisphosphonates and denosumab, is well established, and the number of reported cases is increasing. The development of novel medications used in the treatment of cancer, as well as autoimmune and bone conditions, has led to more cases of MRONJ being reported. However, in addition to this group of medications, increasing numbers of new agents in cancer therapy, such as antiangiogenic agents, have also been implicated in the development of MRONJ. As these newer agents with similar mechanisms are routinely used, the numbers of reported cases will likely rise further. This article aims to identify and summarize the drugs implicated in MRONJ, besides bisphosphonates and denosumab. A wide range of medications classified as tyrosine kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors, radiopharmaceuticals, selective estrogen receptor modulators, and immunosuppressants have been implicated in MRONJ. It remains crucial that oral health care providers are aware of these new medications and their associated risks to manage their patients appropriately.

Osteoradionecrosis (ORN) of the jaws remains among the most commonly encountered and challenging complications of radiotherapy to the head and neck. The purpose of this study was to provide a review of the medical management for ORN and evaluate the reported outcomes with the use of pentoxifylline and tocopherol (PENTO), by means of a systematic review and meta-analysis. The predictor variable was the use of PENTO in the treatment of ORN. The outcome variable was the proportion of full recovery or significant improvement not requiring further intervention. The likelihood function was used to combine the studies and estimate the proportion and standard deviation of each outcome by the maximum likelihood estimation. Seven studies met the inclusion criteria. A total 211 patients were treated. One hundred twenty-six patients recovered fully or improved significantly not requiring further intervention. Sixty patients remained the same, 10 were lost to follow-up, and the disease progressed in 15. The current literature supports the use of PENTO in the treatment of ORN of the jaws. Additional well-designed prospective studies are needed in order to further validate the regimen that can then be employed in the treatment of ORN.

Purpose To review cases of suppurative osteomyelitis of the jaws treated at the Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA) over a 10-year period, evaluate specifics of disease presentation, and answer the clinical question: are there identifiable variables associated with treatment outcome? Materials and Methods A retrospective cohort study was completed using patients treated for suppurative osteomyelitis of the jaws at the Massachusetts General Hospital from April 2006 to October 2016. Inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of suppurative osteomyelitis of the jaw, age older than 18 years, and complete medical records. Patients with nonsuppurative disease, radiation history, or antiresorptive exposure were excluded. Candidate variables included demographic information, medical and dental history, presenting signs and symptoms, and radiologic and laboratory findings. The outcome variable was successful treatment, defined as resolution of symptoms and radiographic evidence of healing after initial treatment. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed with significance set a P value less than .05. Results Forty-two patients met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 53 years (range, 20 to 80 yr) and 26 were women (62%). Common comorbidities included cardiovascular disease (52%), tobacco use (45%), and psychiatric disorders (45%). Pain (90%), swelling (86%), and neurosensory change (50%) were the most common findings. Common microbacterial isolates included Streptococcus milleri (74%) and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species (43%), which showed marked antibiotic resistance. Surgical debridement was the most common intervention (93%). Successful treatment was found in 86%. Of 6 persistent cases, 4 resolved with a second debridement and continued antibiotics and 2 required resection. Increased white blood cell (WBC) count at presentation (P = .005) and associated psychiatric diagnoses (P = .037) were statistically associated with unsuccessful initial treatment. Conclusion The results of this study indicate that antibiotic resistance is commonly encountered in this patient population, although it was not associated with unsuccessful outcome. Patients presenting with increased WBC count and concurrent psychiatric comorbidities required protracted treatment.

Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) is a rare but detrimental intraoral lesion that predominantly occurs in patients with long-term use of antiresorptive agents, such as bisphosphonate and denosumab, a human anti–receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) monoclonal antibody (Ab). Surgical intervention, such as tooth extraction, is a known risk factor for MRONJ, which is often performed to eliminate preexiting pathologic inflammatory conditions, such as periodontal diseases. Nonetheless, it remains unknown whether pre-existing periodontal disease condition exacerbates, or removal of such condition ameliorates, MRONJ development after tooth extraction. In this study, we combined the ligature-induced periodontitis and the tooth extraction mouse models under the administration of zoledronic acid (ZOL) or anti-RANKL Ab, and provide experimental evidence that a pre-existing pathologic inflammatory condition exacerbates MRONJ development after tooth extraction in mice. Under ZOL administration, tooth extraction alone induced ONJ lesions; however, extraction of a ligature-placed tooth further exacerbated ONJ development. When the ligature was removed and the inflammatory condition was deescalated, ONJ development was ameliorated. Anti-RANKL Ab administration resulted in similar outcomes. Interestingly, unlike ZOL-administered mice, anti-RANKL Ab–administered mice exhibited complete absence of osteoclasts, suggesting that physical presence of osteoclasts is not directly involved in ONJ development. Collectively, our study demonstrated that periodontal disease is a functionally linked risk factor that predisposes ONJ development after tooth extraction in the presence of bisphosphonate and denosumab.

GAPO syndrome is characterized by growth retardation, alopecia, pseudoanodontia, and ophthalmic abnormalities. This very rarely reported syndrome affects various ethnic groups and can present with manifestations other than those usually reported. Pseudoanodontia is a rare clinical and radiologic manifestation that is always associated with GAPO syndrome. Osteomyelitis of the jaws is a less common disease that is usually attributed to odontogenic causes. This case report describes osteomyelitis of the mandible in a patient with GAPO syndrome. Further, an additional 3 cases of GAPO in the patient's family, with special emphasis on oral mucosal changes and pseudoanodontia, are discussed.

Purpose Giant cell granuloma (GCG) of the jaw is a rare disease with high morbidity. Various treatment options have been discussed in the past. Since 2010, a pharmaceutical therapy with denosumab seems to have been successful for giant cell tumors of the femur. The authors hypothesized the equally successful use of denosumab for GCGs of the jaws. Materials and Methods In the present retrospective cohort study, 5 patients with large GCGs of the jaws were treated with denosumab with a follow-up of 25 to 49 months. Frequent clinical follow-ups and a radiologic follow-up were performed and systematically analyzed. Results All patients showed a curative treatment response and complete metabolic resolution of the GCGs under treatment with denosumab. Conclusion A brief review of the relevant literature and a detailed evaluation of current cases led to the conclusion that denosumab therapy should be considered a therapeutic option for large central GCGs of the jaws. The results of this study suggest denosumab is a successful treatment option. A treatment length no shorter than 12 months is recommended and monitoring of treatment response can be well managed by positron-emission tomographic computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging.

Objective To evaluate the effects of different doses and durations of teriparatide therapy on MRONJ resolution in rats. Subjects and methods A total of 120 rats that had been affected with MRONJ (after six weekly zoledronate injections and tooth extraction) were randomly divided into eight subgroups: 2, 10, and 20 μg/kg/day teriparatide were administered to L4, M4, and H4 for 4 weeks, and to L8, M8, and H8 for 8 weeks, respectively. C4 and C8 received saline for 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. One week after the final injection, rats were sacrificed and assessed clinically (bone exposure/fistula) and histologically (number of osteocytes in extraction socket and empty lacunae in alveolar bone). Results MRONJ was clinically improved in 72.2%, 61.5%, and 40% of stage I, II, and III experimental rats, respectively. In the control rats, the results were 20.8% for stage I and no improvement for stages II and III. Aside from L4 and L8, the experimental subgroups had a significantly higher rate of clinical and histological improvement compared with their corresponding controls. There was a significantly higher number of osteocytes and lower number of empty lacunae in M4 and H4 compared with C4, in H4 compared with L4, in M8 and H8 compared with C8, and in H8 compared with L8. Conclusion Teriparatide therapy improved clinical and histological features of MRONJ in a dose-dependent manner, but clinically relevant doses of teriparatide might not be sufficient for MRONJ resolution in rats. Extending the duration of teriparatide therapy from 4 to 8 weeks did not affect treatment outcomes.

Purpose To integrate the available data published on squamous odontogenic tumors (SOT) and squamous odontogenic tumor-like proliferations in odontogenic cysts (SOT-LPOC) into a comprehensive analysis of their clinical/radiologic features. Materials and methods An electronic search was undertaken in January 2017. Eligibility criteria included publications having enough clinical/radiological/histological information to confirm a definite diagnosis. Results A total of 74 publications reporting 110 SOTs (102 central, 8 peripheral) and 60 SOT-LPOC were included. Compared to SOT-LPOC, SOT showed lower mean age, no preference regarding maxilla or mandible localization, significant association with cortical bone perforation, multilocular radiographic appearance, and mobility of the tooth/teeth associated with the lesion. While 5 recurrent SOT were reported after enucleation, no recurrent SOT-LPOC was found. Conclusions SOT shows a more aggressive biologic behavior than SOT-LPOC, which supports the hypothesis that the two lesions are distinct clinicopathological conditions.

Fibroosseous lesions in the jaws have similar histologic and radiographic features. Despite their similarity, management varies significantly. In this article, common fibroosseous lesions and key radiographic features are described. Many of the fibroosseous lesions are diagnosed radiographically, without performing histologic examinations. For some of the fibroosseous lesions, for example, periapical osseous dysplasia, histologic examination is contraindicated. Cherubism and fibrous dysplasia have specific radiographic findings; these conditions can be diagnosed radiographically. Accurate diagnosis conditions is essential; some conditions do not require any intervention, while others require surgical resection. Patient demographics, for example, age, gender, and race, play important roles in diagnosis.

Maxillofacial imaging encompasses radiology of the teeth and jaws, including the temporomandibular joints. Modalities used include intra-oral radiographs, panoramic tomography, cephalograms, cone-beam computed tomography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound, and radionuclide imaging. Common indications for imaging are impacted and supernumerary teeth, dental implants, inflammatory dental disease, and fibro-osseous lesions, cysts, and masses of the jaws. Osteonecrosis of the jaws may follow radiotherapy or the use of bisphosphonates and other drugs. Imaging of the temporomandibular joints and the potential role of imaging in obstructive sleep apnoea are also discussed.

Purpose Chronic suppurative osteomyelitis (CSO) of the jaw is one of the most difficult infectious diseases to manage, because it causes progressive bony destruction and is associated with bacterial inhabitation of the sequestra. A combination of antibiotic therapy and surgical debridement is often used to treat CSO. Nevertheless, various systemic conditions can lead to life-threatening complications. Methods The present study aimed to explore the wound healing progress in 16 cases of CSO through protein expression analysis of postoperative exudates (POE) that were collected 6 h, 1 day, and 2 days after saucerization and/or decortication. A bony lesion was removed during surgery and then examined pathologically, and the CSO POE was examined by immunoprecipitation thus high performance chromatography (IP-HPLC). The POE at 6 h was used as a comparative control. Results Histologically the CSO lesion showed a necrotic granulomatous lesion heavily infiltrated with polymorphonuclear leukocytes, macrophages, and plasma cells, admixed with multiple sequestra inhabited by bacterial colonies. The IP-HPLC analysis displayed a slight increase in innate immunity-related proteins, i.e., NFkB, TNFα, IL-1, IL-6, IL-28, and LL-37, but a gradual decrease of bacteria-related inflammatory proteins, i.e., IL-8, IL-12, CD31, CD68, and lysozyme. The angiogenesis-related proteins, i.e., VEGF-A and VEGF-C, were slightly decreased but TGF-β1 and bFGF were markedly increased on day 2. The osteogenesis-related proteins, i.e., OPG and ALP, were slightly increased, while the osteoclastogenesis-related protein, RANKL was slightly decreased compared to the control. Conclusion These findings indicate that the infected CSO undergoes a rapid wound healing process with active osteogenesis and a gradual decrease in bacteria-related inflammation, predicting a favorable prognosis after surgery. Moreover, IP-HPLC can be useful in monitoring the POE and wound healing processes during the postoperative period.

Introduction Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a severe complication of antiresorptive medication (AM) in the treatment of bone-affecting cancer-related conditions and osteoporosis. Aim of this study was to reveal whether patients treated with AM and show Medication Related OsteoNecrosis of the Jaw (MRONJ) are vitamin D deficient or not. Materials and methods A 2 year retrospective study evaluated hospital records of 63 patients who received AM. Patients were divided into two groups. One group (n = 45) consisted of patients who presented a stage 2 ONJ (eb+ = exposed bone). Second group patients (n = 18) (eb− = no exposed bone) presented for extraction of teeth. Serum levels of vitamin D (25-OHD) were analysed. P values ≤ 0.05 in t-test were regarded as statistically significant. Results Serum levels of 25-OHD were significantly higher in the eb(−) group (29.5 ng/ml), than in the eb(+) group (20.49 ng/ml). Blood levels of calcium were also significantly higher in eb(−) group (2.25 mmol/L; 0.11 SD) than in eb(+) group (2.175 mmol/L; 0.16 SD). Conclusion Prevalence of MRONJ in AM treated patients seems to be increased by low serum 25-OHD. A measurable tendency in the role of 25-OHD for the development of MRONJ was recorded and leads to the recommendation for a sufficient vitamin D substitution in patients treated with AM.

Camurati-Engelmann disease (CED), or progressive diaphyseal dysplasia, is an uncommon bone dysplasia that is inherited in an autosomal-dominant pattern. The disease mainly affects the diaphyses of the long bones but can induce sclerotic changes to the facial skeleton and skull base. The diagnosis of CED is based on clinical and radiologic features. This article presents the clinical and radiologic characteristics of the jaws as visualized on cone-beam computed tomograms of a 46-year-old woman diagnosed with CED.

Osteomyelitis is an infection and inflammation associated with the bone structures: bone marrow, cortical bone, periosteum, blood vessels and nerves. Although it does not have a frequent presentation, it can sometimes lead to complications such as pathological fractures or even septicemia. We present a clinical case study, to assess the relationship between osteomyelitis of the jaw and pathological fractures, after the extraction of an impacted wisdom tooth. This case highlights a rare complication following the surgical removal of mandibular third molar; a slow evolution of the pathology following an extraction should lead to close monitoring of the patient both clinically and radiographically, albeit osteomyelitis is a rare complication, it should be included as one of the differential diagnosis of persistent post-extraction pain.

This report describes the case of a 42-year-old woman who consulted with a maxillofacial specialist for pain and an exophytic lesion in the maxilla. Biopsy examination disclosed a bone cyst with abundant giant cells, and head and neck computed tomography was performed. A diagnosis of brown tumor in the maxilla and mandible was made, and primary hyperparathyroidism (parathyroid adenoma) was determined as the origin of the bone lesions. The patient underwent a left superior parathyroidectomy, which resolved the hormonal disorder (as determined by normal calcium and parathyroid hormone levels) and the brown tumors, which appeared to have mineralized at 1-year follow-up computed tomography. Dental implant rehabilitation was performed at the sites of the absent tumors. A systematic review of articles published in the English-language medical literature through the PubMed and Medline databases yielded 40 articles (published from 1969 through 2016) on 45 cases of hyperparathyroidism associated with the location of a brown tumor in the mandible or maxilla.

Introduction The caseload of jaw osteomyelitis seem to have decreased considerably over the last fifty years thanks to the progress of oral hygiene, the appearance and the use of antibiotics, and early screening. ‘Limited osteitis’ remains frequent in general practice (alveolitis after dental extraction), but osteomyelitis is much rarer as evidenced by the lack of current literature and the low number of reported patients in the published series. The aim of this study was to analyze retrospectively all the cases of maxillo-mandibular osteomyelitis treated in a large academic department of Stomatology and Maxillofacial Surgery over a period of 6 years and to compare the results to data from the literature. Material and method All patients diagnosed with maxillo-mandibular osteomyelitis by one of the staff surgeons between January 2009 and December 2015 was included. An epidemiological record (sex, age, ethnic background, risk factors, clinical, origin of disease, imaging and biology, treatments and progression) were collected for each patient. Osteomyelitis cases were classified according to the Zurich Classification System. Results were compared to data from the literature. Results Forty patients were retained. Three presented acute osteomyelitis, 26 secondary chronic osteomyelitis and 11 a primary chronic osteomyelitis. Osteomyelitis affected predominantly the mandible (87%). Dental origin was found in 90% of cases. Nine patients (22.5%) recovered and 29 (90%) were clinically improved. Ten of the 11 patients with primary chronic osteomyelitis were improved. Discussion This cohort study is one of the largest series currently available and presents results comparable to those of the literature of the last 25 years.

The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of dental and jaw changes in individuals with sickle cell anemia (SCA) compared with a control group from a Brazilian population.This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. Participants were divided into 2 groups: SCA and control (123 patients per group). Intraoral periapical radiographs were taken. Changes in bone pattern and dental changes were investigated by using the following radiographic parameters: (1) trabecular bone (step-ladder or spider web); (2) integrity of the lamina dura (loss of sharpness and continuity, partial or complete absence, and increased thickness); and (3) dental changes (pulp chamber, root surface, periapex, dental form, number, and position). Fisher's exact and χStep-ladder (P .001) and spider-web patterns (P .001) in trabecular bone of the jaw were more common in individuals with SCA than in the control group. Loss of lamina dura was more frequent in those with SCA than in control individuals (P = .021). Dental changes were not different between groups (P .05), even though the prevalence of hypotaurodontism was twice as high in the SCA group as in controls (P = .086).The prevalence of jaw changes is higher in individuals with SCA.

The idiopathic bone cavity (IBC) is an intraosseous pseudocyst devoid of epithelial lining. Clinically, IBCs of the jaw are asymptomatic and normally found in routine radiographic exams. Although the literature regarding the content of IBCs is controversial, the final diagnosis is usually aided by the discovery of an empty cavity upon surgical exploration. The aim of this study was to perform cytological and histological analysis of IBC contents. Cytological analysis of nine cases of IBC was performed after puncture and processed by the cell block technique. Histological analysis was performed in six cases in which it was possible to collect enough material by curettage of bone walls. Remarkably, cell block analysis revealed the presence of fibrin, often arranged as a net; erythrocytes; and inflammatory cells, with a predominance of lymphocytes as well as some macrophages and neutrophils. Histological analysis showed the presence of scant connective tissue, bone trabeculae, hemorrhagic foci, and hemosiderin. Only two cases presented scattered multinucleated giant cells. Cytological evaluation of IBC content by the cell block technique might represent a useful diagnostic tool, especially in cases in which there is no available material for curettage in the cavity.

Purpose Different lesions in the fibro-osseous group share microscopic features; thus, establishing a definitive diagnosis based on microscopic features alone can be a challenge. There is a need for additional microscopic tools to aid in differentiating these lesions. This study compared parameters related to vascularity among 3 lesions in the fibro-osseous group: fibrous dysplasia (FD), central ossifying fibroma (COF), and cemento-osseous dysplasia (COD). Materials and Methods This study was a cross-sectional analysis of biopsied lesions retrieved from 3 medical centers over a 14-year period. The primary predictor variables were the vascularity parameters (number, perimeter, and area). The outcome variables were diagnoses of FD, COF, and COD. Diagnosis was based on clinical, microscopic, and radiologic correlations. From each histopathologic slide, 5 representative fields were captured with a computerized digital camera. The number of blood vessels was counted, and the surface area and vascular perimeter were measured by tracing the perimeter of each vessel. Data were statistically analyzed using analysis of variance with logarithmic transformation and a Tukey adjustment. Results Sixty-six cases were included in the study (26 in FD group, 26 in COF group, and 14 in COD group). The mean number of vessels showed only a tendency to be larger in the FD group compared with the COF and COD groups (5.4 ± 2.6, 3.7 ± 2.3, and 3.6 ± 1.7, respectively), but the results did not reach the threshold for significance. The mean vascular perimeter was 1,385.8 ± 859.2 pixels in the FD group and 742.6 ± 661.8 in COF group after logarithmic transformation (P = .012). The perimeter in the COD group was smaller (941.1 ± 502) compared with that in the FD group, but the difference did not reach the threshold for significance. The mean area was 25,061 ± 24,875.6 in the FD group and 11,773.8 ± 21,734.4 in the COF group after logarithmic transformation (P = .004). The perimeter in the COD group was smaller (13,011.1 ± 8,338.3) compared with the FD group, but the difference did not reach the threshold for significance. Conclusion The vascular content of the FD group was markedly higher than of the COF group. These vascular changes can aid in differentiating these lesions microscopically.

Purpose Medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ) is a well-described complication of antiresorptive and antiangiogenic medications. Although osteonecrosis can be associated with other inciting events and medications, such as trauma, infection, steroids, chemotherapy, and coagulation disorders, these are rarely reported in the literature. Materials and Methods This is a six case series of MRONJ associated with medications other than antiresorptive or antiangiogenic drugs. Results Patient demographics, inciting event, location, stage, imaging findings, and outcome are reported. Conclusion With the continued development and clinical use of new biologic medications for diseases such as cancer and rheumatoid arthritis, it is important to continue to evaluate their effects on the oral cavity. The degree of risk for osteonecrosis in patients taking these new classes of drugs is uncertain but warrants awareness and monitoring.

Purpose The aim of this study was to describe the effect of vancomycin-impregnated calcium sulfate in the treatment of osteomyelitis of the jaw. Materials and Methods Twelve patients who were diagnosed with osteomyelitis of the jaw underwent treatment with vancomycin-impregnated calcium sulfate since July 2014 at the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, School of Stomatology, China Medical University (Shenyang, China). All patients underwent debridement of nonviable bone and implantation of vancomycin-impregnated calcium sulfate. The wounds were covered with an acellular dermal matrix and sutured. Results Ten patients had satisfactory wound healing. However, 2 cases of maxillary central osteomyelitis had delayed wound healing. The wounds healed after the surgical site was resutured under local anesthesia. At 3 months, the panoramic radiograph showed that most implants had been reabsorbed and replaced by new bone formation. All patients in this study had no recurrence of infection at 6 to 18 months (mean, 10.8 months) of follow-up. Conclusions The use of vancomycin-impregnated calcium sulfate in the surgical debridement site for chronic osteomyelitis of the jaw has shown encouraging results. In addition, calcium sulfate can promote the formation of new bone to a certain extent.

Article Title and Bibliographic Information Effectiveness of treatments for medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw: A systematic review and meta-analysis. El-Rabbany M, Sgro A, Lam DK, Shah PS, Azarpazhooh A. J Am Dent Assoc 2017; 148(8):584-94. Source of Funding Nonprofit: Canadian Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and the Alpha Omega Foundation of Canada Type of Study/Design Systematic review with meta-analysis of data

The purpose of this study was to compare medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) with osteoradionecrosis (ORN). Group 1 comprised 74 MRONJ patients (93 lesions) and group 2 comprised 59 ORN patients (69 lesions). Patient characteristics, clinical presentation of the lesions, the presence of complications, and the relationship with previous dental extractions were analyzed for both groups. Significant differences were found between the groups with regard to the characteristics of the patient populations, extraction as the precipitating event, the type of initial complaint, the prevalence of pain, and the location of the lesions. In the ORN group, significantly more patients complained of pain (P=0.0108) compared with the MRONJ group. Furthermore, significantly more pathological fractures (P

Objective We investigated the ability of known clinical signs and symptoms, as well as common laboratory tests, to correctly predict a positive temporal artery biopsy. Design A prospective cohort study. Participants Consecutive patients in a tertiary referral centre undergoing temporal artery biopsy. Methods Clinical information was collected using a predesigned questionnaire. Pathology results and laboratory information were collected from digital patient records. Main Outcome measure The predictive value of clinical signs, symptoms, and laboratory values of a positive temporal artery biopsy. Results Over a 3-year period, 259 patients were enrolled and 251 patients were analyzed. Sixty-one patients had a positive biopsy. Clinical features most predictive of a positive biopsy were jaw claudication (positive likelihood ratio [LR+] 2.31) and abnormal temporal artery pulse (LR+ 2.62). Receiver operating characteristic curves generated for erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and platelets values showed an area under curve (AUC) value of 0.71, 0.75, and 0.76, respectively. The initiation of steroids decreased the diagnostic utility of the ESR, CRP, and platelets values (AUC = 0.58, 0.61, and 0.63, respectively). Conclusions A variety of clinical signs and symptoms were observed in patients referred for a temporal artery biopsy. Clinical signs and symptoms were less accurate in predicting a positive biopsy than laboratory tests. No combination of clinical signs and symptoms tested was able to predict giant cell arteritis with the certainty necessary to justify or withhold long-term steroid therapy.

Odontogenic cysts represent a common form of pathology of the jaws, and the natural history, clinicopathologic findings, and appropriate management strategies are important to the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Odontogenic cysts in the pediatric populations are important pathologic entities given their potential impact on the growth and development of the maxillofacial complex. Inappropriate management strategies can severely affect the form and function of the growing child. Categorizing pediatric odontogenic cysts into inflammatory or developmental causes provides a convenient way of conceptualizing these various entities and helps facilitate the appropriate diagnosis and the subsequent management.

Fibro-osseous lesions are grouped together because histologically they show similar cellular and mineralization patterns. Despite the histologic ubiquity, their behaviors vary significantly. Because of the histologic similarity and the broad range of morbidity among them, it is important to be able to differentiate between them in the preliminary diagnostic process. The radiographic presentations along with the location of the bony changes are often extremely critical diagnostic features to help render a differential or working diagnosis in lieu of an automatic biopsy procedure. Therefore the unique and specific radiographic presentations may be one of the main criteria for preliminary diagnosis.

Objective This study seeks to investigate immunohistochemical parameters that could distinguish non-aggressive Central giant cell granuloma (CGCG) from aggressive CGCG, two groups of lesions which differ in their clinical and radiographic features and prognosis. Material and methods 12 cases of non-aggressive CGCG and 11 cases of aggressive CGCG were investigated and associated the immunohistochemical expression of macrophages (CD68 and CD163), blood vessels (CD34 and CD105), lymphatic vessels (D2-40) and regulator proteins (p63 and Ki-67). Clinical and radiographic features were also studied. Results Associations between all proteins in non-aggressive and aggressive CGCG were not significant (p > 0.05). With respect to non-aggressive CGCG, there were no significant correlations, while in aggressive CGCG there was a significant positive correlation between CD68 and CD163 (p = 0.031), between CD34 and D2-40 proteins (p = 0.04), whereas a significant negative correlation was observed between CD105 and CD68 (p = 0.040). However, regardless of aggressiveness of CGCG, there was a significant positive correlation between CD68 and CD163 (p = 0,04). Among the clinical and immunohistochemical aspects, only the symptomatology was a significant risk factor for the occurrence of aggressive CGCG (OR = 12.00/p = 0.016). Conclusion Macrophages and angiogenesis contribute to their maintenance and development of CGCG. In addition, immunohistochemistry used here was not able to differentiate their aggressiveness. However, symptomatology was proved to be a risk factor for the occurrence of aggressive CGCG. It is possible that clinical features, particularly symptomatology, represent the most appropriate parameter to attempt to distinguish GCCG.

Purpose Since accurate diagnosis of inflammatory jaw diseases is still challenging, this study investigated the performance of three phase bone scintigraphy including SPECT/CT in the assessment of correct diagnosis and size of the affected bone tissue. Method This retrospective study contained 31 patients with suspected jaw-related osteoradionecrosis, osteomyelitis or medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw, which underwent 3-phase bone scintigraphy including SPECT/CT. Results were reviewed by two nuclear medicine physicians. Positive cases received surgery; negative ones were followed-up for six months. Both served as reference standard. Inflamed bone length was measured in the SPECT/CT images and postoperatively by a pathologist. Results 19 out of 20 positive cases and 10 out of 11 negative ones were classified correctly by SPECT/CT (sensitivity 95 %, specificity 91 %, accuracy 94 %, positive predictive value 95 %, negative predictive value 91 %). Regarding the length of affected bone, no significant difference (p = 0.23) could be observed between SPECT/CT and postoperative obtained values. Both correlated significantly (r = 0.86, p = 0.0001). Conclusion SPECT/CT can safely detect different kinds of inflammatory jaw pathologies compared to other conventional imaging modalities. Lack of specificity of conventional scintigraphy ranging from 17 % to 71 % in earlier studies could be improved by adding CT-analysis. Additionally, SPECT/CT assists the surgeon in determining the expansion of the process (with focus on the length) preoperatively and thereby optimizing surgery planning.

Objectives Giant cell tumour of bone (GCTB) is a rare tumour, generally managed with surgery. Treatment of the very rare unresectable advanced/metastatic GCTB is challenging and denosumab is the only current available medical option, an anti-RANKL monoclonal antibody inhibiting osteolysis. An uncommon but severe and treatment-limiting adverse event of denosumab is the osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). The clinical management of GCTB patients stopping denosumab for medication-related (MR)-ONJ and the possible reintroduction of denosumab after MR-ONJ resolution is matter of debate. We performed a retrospective study to describe the incidence, clinical features and outcome of MR-ONJ in unresectable GCTB patients treated with denosumab at our Institution. Design and setting Retrospective, single-institutional study. Participants Adult patients receiving denosumab as antineoplastic therapy for GCTB and experiencing MR-ONJ at Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale Tumori of Milan between January 2008 and July 2019. Main outcome measures Incidence, time of onset and clinical features of MR-ONJ. Results 29 patients with locally advanced and/or metastatic GCTB treated with denosumab were identified. At a median follow-up of 70 months (range 1–125), 4 (13.8%) patients experienced MR-ONJ while on treatment, after 125, 119, 85 and 41 months of denosumab, respectively. All patients showed an ongoing tumour stabilisation with denosumab at the MR-ONJ onset and in all cases denosumab was stopped. All four patients were treated with ozone therapy. Two are waiting for surgery, two were already operated on. Both of them experienced disease progression and were thus rechallenged with denosumab. One is still on therapy after 25 months. The other had an MR-ONJ relapse after 39 months and was treated again with ozone therapy and surgery. She is under surveillance, GCTB being currently stable. Conclusion A clinical algorithm of denosumab rechallenge after complete resolution of MR-ONJ in progressing GCTB patients should be prospectively validated.

Gorham disease is an idiopathic massive osteolysis, and maxillofacial involvement is rare. This report describes a case of a 12-year-old boy with severe progressive osteolysis in the mandible, hyoid bone, mastoid process, and cervical spine. Radiation therapy and interferon-α therapy were followed by bisphosphonate therapy. The patient died of respiratory failure. To describe the clinicopathologic features of Gorham disease of the jaws with an emphasis on the fatal types, 64 cases in the literature were reviewed (female-to-male ratio, 1:1.78; average age, 33.02 ± 19.38 yr). Most lesions were located only in the mandible or in other locations in combination with the mandible, except for 3 cases. During follow-up, there were 7 cases of disease-specific death, resulting in a mortality rate of 10.94%. The main causes of death were chylothorax, rib fractures secondary to osteolysis, or spinal fractures. Although most patients received surgical treatment (43.75%), the type of treatment was not related to prognosis.

There is an increasing use of established and newer medications that have antiangiogenic properties. Inhibition of angiogenesis likely has either a primary or secondary role in the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). These medications are being used in the treatment of various cancers and in the treatment of several non-oncologic conditions. Antiangiogenic medications when used in combination with antiresorptive medications, such as nitrogen-containing bisphosphonates or denosumab, seem to increase the likelihood of osteonecrosis of the jaw. This review highlights the role of inhibitors of angiogenesis and their role in the development of osteonecrosis of the jaws.

The teeth are unique in that they provide a direct pathway for spread of infection into surrounding osseous and soft tissue structures. Periodontal disease is the most common cause of tooth loss worldwide, referring to infection of the supporting structures of the tooth, principally the gingiva, periodontal ligament, cementum, and alveolar bone. Periapical disease refers to an infectious or inflammatory process centered at the root apex of the tooth, usually occurring when deep caries infect the pulp chamber and root canals. We review the pathogenesis, clinical features, and radiographic findings (emphasis on computed tomography) in periodontal and periapical disease.

Introduction The mainstay of dental imaging has traditionally been the intraoral images called periapicals and bitewings, which for many years were made with film that was wrapped in a protective packet. Today these images are taken using small detectors or sensors that are placed inside the patient 's mouth. The first digital intraoral solid-state detector, a charge-coupled device (CCD), was introduced in 1997. These detectors are directly attached to the computer by a wire and give an almost instantaneous image on the computer monitor (Fig. 1). This provides huge savings in time compared with the traditional wet processing needed for films as well as for the ability to manipulate the image and change its brightness and contrast. In addition, because the images appear on a monitor within the operatory it allows for instant feedback to the operator and also the patient. Several manufacturers are now using complementary metal oxide semiconductor technology for their detectors, as it is less expensive to produce than CCD technology. In dentistry these types of detectors are often referred to as “sensors” to differentiate them from an alternate digital intraoral detector, photostimulable phosphor (PSP) plates. PSP plates are thinner and more flexible than the solid-state sensors and are often tolerated better by the patient. They are the same size as traditional intraoral film packets and can be used with the same positioning devices without modification. Exposure to x-rays produces a latent image within the plate in the form of stored energy, which is released when the plates are “processed” by laser light in the manufacturer 's scanning device or reader. The readers are often small enough that they can be placed in the dental operatory (Fig. 2). The image, therefore, like film is not instantaneous as this is a 2-step process. However, once placed in the reader the images can appear on the computer monitor in as little as 3 seconds. Some dental offices still use film-based imaging

Purpose To review the conservative and surgical management options of osteoradionecrosis, in particular, highlighting the recent the use of anti-radiation fibrosis drugs (pentoxifylline, tocopherol and clodronate). Material and methods We performed a literature review. The management options were divided into two groups, conservative and surgical management. Results Over the years several treatment options have been proposed including; conservative management (antibiotics, analgesics, oral hygiene), ultrasound therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, surgical resection with reconstruction and more recently the use of anti-radiation fibrosis drugs (pentoxifylline, tocopherol and clodronate). Early or low grade ORN can be managed conservatively using a combination of treatment options. In advanced or refractory cases of ORN (pathological fracture, orocutaneous fistula) surgical treatment, at present, remains the only treatment option available. A new understanding of the pathophysiology of ORN (radiation induced fibroatrophic process) has lead to the development of new therapeutic management regimes. Conclusion In advanced or refractory cases of ORN surgical treatment, including microvascular reconstructive techniques for bone and soft tissue, remains the only option available.

Bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ) is usually initiated by dental surgery, but is occasionally exacerbated by other antiresorptive (denosumab) and anti-angiogenic therapies, and in such cases is currently termed medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (MRONJ). The case of a 58-year-old female with breast cancer who developed multiple and ultimately fatal metastases despite 3 years of treatment with chemotherapeutic drugs and intravenous bisphosphonates, is presented herein. Her malignant disease worsened and she was started on mitoxantrone. She developed a severe adverse reaction to this drug soon after starting treatment. As well as diarrhoea and vomiting, she had a very aggressive gingival inflammation with multiple ulcerations in both jaws and wide areas of necrotic bone, affecting the attached gingiva, and seemingly unrelated to dental plaque. These ulcerations and the exposed necrotic bone persisted for more that 6 months, until her death. This report describes a case in which severe gingival ulcerations that occurred after mitoxantrone treatment for metastatic breast cancer were a local factor that initiated MRONJ. Sin financiación 1.918 JCR (2016) Q2, 30/90 Dentistry, Oral Surgery & Medicine, 91/197 Surgery UEV

This study aims to evaluate the additional costs incurred by using a computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technique for reconstructing maxillofacial defects by analyzing typical cases. The medical charts of 11 consecutive patients who were subjected to the CAD/CAM technique were considered, and invoices from the companies providing the CAD/CAM devices were reviewed for every case. The number of devices used was significantly correlated with cost (r = 0.880; p < 0.001). Significant differences in mean costs were found between cases in which prebent reconstruction plates were used (€3346.00 ± €29.00) and cases in which they were not (€2534.22 ± €264.48; p < 0.001). Significant differences were also obtained between the costs of two, three and four devices, even when ignoring the cost of reconstruction plates. Additional fees provided by statutory health insurance covered a mean of 171.5% ± 25.6% of the cost of the CAD/CAM devices. Since the additional fees provide financial compensation, we believe that the CAD/CAM technique is suited for wide application and not restricted to complex cases. Where additional fees/funds are not available, the CAD/CAM technique might be unprofitable, so the decision whether or not to use it remains a case-to-case decision with respect to cost versus benefit.

Strategies for management of patients with, or at risk for, medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) were set forth in the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (AAOMS) position papers in 2007 and 2009. The position papers were developed by a special committee appointed by the board and composed of clinicians with extensive experience in caring for these patients and basic science researchers. The knowledge base and experience in addressing MRONJ has expanded, necessitating modifications and refinements to the previous position paper. This special committee met in September 2013 to appraise the current literature and revise the guidelines as indicated to reflect current knowledge in this field. This update contains revisions to diagnosis, staging, and management strategies and highlights current research status. The AAOMS considers it vitally important that this information be disseminated to other relevant health care professionals and organizations.

Purpose The management of odontogenic cysts and tumors typically requires a biopsy, which may present significant challenges and prompt an additional visit to the operating room before definitive treatment. The aim of this study was to determine the validity of frozen-section diagnosis in the management of benign oral and maxillofacial lesions, allowing intraoperative diagnosis followed by definitive treatment under the same general anesthetic. Materials and Methods A retrospective chart review of patients treated at the University of Michigan Health System was performed. Patients of all ages who had a diagnosis of a benign maxillofacial lesion by frozen-section and permanent histopathology reports were included for analysis. Patients were identified using the Current Procedural Terminology code for enucleation and curettage and International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes for benign cysts or tumors of skull, face, or lower jaw. Results Of 450 patients reviewed, 214 had intraoperative frozen-section examination available for comparison with permanent histopathology. There were 121 men (56.5%) and 93 women (43.5%), with a mean age of 41 years. Compared with final permanent histopathology, the overall sensitivity of frozen sections was 92.1%. Frozen-section histopathology had a sensitivity greater than 90% and a specificity greater than 95% for the diagnosis of dentigerous cyst and keratocyst odontogenic tumor. Conclusions In this study of 214 patients with benign maxillofacial lesions, frozen-section histopathology was found to be a valid diagnostic modality with high sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. These results and analysis support the use of frozen-section histopathology for the treatment of benign maxillofacial lesions and underscore its value in the management of these lesions.

Osteonecrosis of the jaw as a result of treatment with receptor activators of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) inhibitors (denosumab) is a new type of bony necrosis, the exact pathogenesis of which is unknown. Our aim was to find out whether the turnover of bone in the jaw is increased after denosumab has been given compared with other skeletal sites, and if that turnover might have a role in denosumab-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (DRONJ). Bone scintigraphic images of 45 female patients with breast cancer and bone metastases were analysed retrospectively, and divided into 3 groups: those given denosumab, those given a bisphosphonate, and a control group (n=15 in each). All patients had bone scintigraphy before treatment (T0) and during the course of treatment after 12 (T1) and 24 (T2) months. The data were analysed quantitatively using 6 preset bony regions of interest. There was similar turnover of bone in the mandible compared with other skeletal sites (such as the femur), while the maxilla showed significantly higher turnover. None of the bony regions investigated showed any significant changes after the bisphosphonate had been given. There was a tendency to increase bone turnover in those patients taking denosumab. The bone turnover of the jawbone is not overtly changed either by a bisphosphonate or denosumab, so it seems unlikely that oversuppression of bony turnover in the jawbones plays an important part either in the pathogenesis of DRONJ or in the bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ).

Our purpose was to highlight the various etiologies of maxillo-mandibular osteonecrosis, other than radiotherapy and biphosphonate related osteitis that have been abundantly reported. We performed a PubMed search from August 1, 1972 to August 1, 2012 using the following MeSH terms: "osteonecrosis", "bone", "necrosis", "jaw", "maxilla", "mandible", "palate", "oral", "avascular necrosis", NOT "bisphosphonate" NOT "osteoradionecrosis". Most cases of osteonecrosis were iatrogenic. Viral, mycotic, or bacterial infections were less frequent causes. Cocaine abuse, Wegener's granulomatosis, and N/K lymphoma were other etiologies. It is important to identify the various etiologies rapidly to manage this sometimes very mutilating condition adequately.

Introduction This study aimed to analyze cases referred from a reference service in oral pathology that were initially misdiagnosed as periapical lesions of endodontic origin and to perform a review of the literature regarding lesions located in the apical area of teeth with a nonendodontic source. Methods A survey was made of clinical cases derived from the service of oral pathology from 2002 to 2012. The pertinent literature was also reviewed using ScienceDirect and PubMed databases. The lesions were grouped into benign lesions mimicking endodontic periapical lesions (BLMEPLs), malignant lesions mimicking endodontic periapical lesions (MLMEPLs), and Stafne bone cavities. The clinical presentations were divided into lesions with swelling without pain, lesions with swelling and pain, and lesions without swelling but presenting with pain. Results The results showed that 66% (37/56) of cases represented benign lesions, 29% (16/56) malignant lesions, and 5% (3/56) Stafne bone cavities. The most commonly reported BLMEPLs were ameloblastomas (21%) followed by nasopalatine duct cysts (13.5%). The most frequently cited MLMEPLs were metastatic injuries (31.5%) followed by carcinomas (25%). The main clinical presentation of BLMEPLs was pain, whereas that of MLMEPLs was swelling associated with pain; Stafne bone cavities displayed particular clinical findings. Conclusions Clinical and radiologic aspects as well as the analysis of the patients' medical history, pulp vitality tests, and aspiration are essential tools for developing a correct diagnosis of periapical lesions of endodontic origin. However, if the instruments mentioned earlier indicate a lesion of nonendodontic origin, a biopsy and subsequent histopathological analysis are mandatory.

Bone biomarkers have been suggested for the risk assessment for osteonecrosis of the jaw, a serious complication associated with bisphosphonate (BP) use; however, no consensus has been reached. This study investigated the possible associations between bone biomarkers and the development of bisphosphonates-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (BRONJ).This is a case–control study of 37 patients with BRONJ (age, 73.6±11.2years) who had at least 1 sample available at diagnosis, out of which, 35 were taking BPs for osteoporosis and 2 patients for bone metastasis. Age- and gender-matched 37 patients who had been exposed to BPs for >24months and had no evidence of BRONJ after dentoalveolar surgery served as control group. The association between biomarkers (osteocalcin [OC], deoxypyridinoline [DPD], C-terminal telopeptide of collagen I [CTX], N-terminal telopeptides [NTX], bone-specific alkaline phosphatase [BAP], and parathyroid hormone [PTH]) and BRONJ development, the effects of BP discontinuation on biomarkers, and the performance of biomarkers for risk assessment were investigated.In our study, the PTH levels were found to be significantly higher in BRONJ patients compared to controls (P0.05). The CTX level in reference to a 150pg/mL cutoff was also not significant for BRONJ development (P>0.05). Among BRONJ patients who discontinued BP, in a linear mixed model, only CTX showed a significant increase over time (β=0.002, P=0.007). The cutoff PTH level was >41.52pg/mL (AUC=0.719, P=0.009), and that of CTX was ≤0.094ng/mL (AUC=0.619, P=0.069).In conclusion, there is insufficient evidence for the risk prediction for BRONJ of current bone biomarkers; additional research is necessary.