Search

Purpose This study was performed to assess and describe the imaging features of 40 cases of Stafne bone defects (SBDs) on computed tomographic (CT) examinations. Materials and methods This study collected data, including age and sex, from 40 patients with SBDs who underwent CT exams. The imaging features of the SBDs were assessed in terms of their location, average size, the relationship of their contour with the cortical plate of the lingual mandible, bone margins, degree of internal density, shape, topographic relationship between the defect and the mandibular edge, the distance from the SBD to the base of the mandible, and the Ariji classification (type I, II, and III). Results The average age was 57.3 years (range, 28-78 years), and the patients were predominantly male (70%). In all cases (100%), the posterior unilateral lingual SBD variant was observed. Within the Ariji classification, type I was the most common (60%). Among the most frequently observed radiographic characteristics were thick sclerotic bone margin across the entire defect contour, completely hypointense internal content, an oval shape, and continuity with the mandibular base with discontinuity of the mandibular edge. Conclusion This study showed that posterior SBDs could present with an oval or rounded shape, complete hypodensity, and thick sclerotic margins. Likewise, SBDs could appear almost anywhere, with minor differences from the classic SBD appearance. It is fundamental for dental practitioners to know the imaging features of SBDs, since they are diagnosed primarily based on imaging.

To examine the diagnostic usefulness and procedures of ultrasonography (US) for mass lesions in the soft tissue of the oral region.This study involved patients with mass lesions (tumorous lesions and cysts) who had undergone US and histopathological examinations from January 2017 to December 2019. The following points were evaluated by two observers using an evaluation scale: vascularity, echo intensity level, boundary, margin shape, distribution of internal echoes, and capsule. The usefulness of each point for differential diagnosis of tumorous lesions and cysts was statistically analyzed.Forty-five mass lesions in the soft tissue of the oral region (33 tumorous lesions and 12 cysts) were analyzed. There were significant differences in four evaluation points between the tumorous lesions and cysts: vascularity, echo intensity level, boundary, and margin shape. Cysts were almost completely excluded diagnostically, especially when vascularity was observed. There were also significant differences in two evaluation points between nonvascular tumorous lesions and cysts: echo intensity level and boundary.In US examination for mass lesions in the oral region, it was possible to diagnose tumorous lesions and exclude cysts when vascularity was observed. When vascularity was not observed, however, tumorous lesions and cysts could be identified using two evaluation points: echo intensity level and boundary.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) targeting programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) are highly promising therapies for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The assessment of PD-L1 expression may help predicting the therapeutic effect of ICIs and, thus, benefit patient selection. Contrast index (CI) parameters derived from dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) have been proven as efficient to assess microvessel density (MVD) in OSCC. The present study aimed to determine the correlation between DCE-MRI parameters and MVD and between DCE-MRI parameters and PD-L1 expression to determine whether DCE-MRI could be used non-invasively to evaluate PD-L1 expression in patients with OSCC. A total of 21 patients with primary OSCC who had undergone a 3T MRI scan, including DCE-MRI, were included in the present study, and CI curve-derived parameters were examined. The MVD and PD-L1 expression in the surgically resected specimens were analyzed using immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining for CD31 and IHC staining for PD-L1, respectively. The results demonstrated that the expression levels of these markers were correlated with DCE-MRI parameters. PD-L1 expression levels were found to be significantly correlated with the maximum CI (CI-max; P=0.007), peak CI (CI-peak; P=0.007), maximum CI gain (CI-gain; P=0.006) and MVD (P=0.001) values. The mean CI-max, CI-peak, CI-gain and MVD values were significantly higher in tumors with high PD-L1 expression (P

Objectives The aim of this systematic literature review was to focus on the use of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) in the evaluation of salivary gland diseases. Study Design Databases were searched, and original research manuscripts up to 2018 were identified by using the keywords “diffusion” combined with “salivary gland,” “salivary gland neoplasm,” “sialadenitis,” “parotid gland,” “submandibular gland,” “sublingual gland,” “minor salivary gland,” “salivary gland fistula,” “salivary gland calculi,” “salivary ducts,” “xerostomia,” and “sialorrhea.” Only English language manuscripts and studies pertaining to DWI were selected. Results In all, 66 investigations regarding various salivary gland diseases, such as neoplasms, postirradiation changes, and inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, were included. Most study objectives involved the use of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in differentiating between benign lesions and malignant neoplasms. Histologic features of evaluated samples were heterogeneous. Conclusions DWI may improve the differential diagnosis of salivary gland diseases, particularly in distinguishing between benign and malignant neoplasms. A unique ADC cutoff value could not be established because of the heterogeneity of the methods applied for ADC assessment and the heterogeneity of the diseases. DWI and the ADC are valuable tools in the diagnosis of salivary gland disease.

Purpose The prevalence of supernumerary teeth has been reported to be between 0.1% and 3.8%. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, clinical significance, and associated pathologies of fourth molars based on a retrospective study and a literature review. Materials and Methods A 5-year retrospective prevalence study was conducted at the Department of Oral Diagnosis and Dentomaxillofacial Radiology of Okayama University Hospital, Okayama, Japan. The study involved extracting data from the digital records of patients from January 1, 2013 through December 31, 2017. The sampling frame included all patients who had panoramic radiographs, cone-beam computed tomography (CT), and multislice CT images during the period under review. Results A total of 26,721 cases were reviewed and 87 fourth molars were identified. The prevalence of fourth molars in the 5-year study at Okayama was calculated as 0.32%. The mean age of patients with a fourth molar was 30.43 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 1:0.98. The vast majority of cases were in the maxilla (92%) and had normal shapes (89.7%); furthermore, 82.8% of cases were unerupted. Conclusion The prevalence of fourth molars in the study population was found to be 0.32%, and fourth molars occurred with approximately equal frequency in males and females. Fourth molars were more common in the maxilla and were predominantly unerupted and small.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of Hounsfield unit (HU) assessment with multislice-CT in the differentiation of radicular cysts (RCs), dentigerous cysts (DCs) and odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs). Methods: In total, 307 odontogenic cysts (RCs, DCs and OKCs) were included in this study. Cysts with lesion diameter Results: In total, 164 cysts were analysed in this study (64 RCs, 57 DCs and 43 OKCs). Regardless of the type of lesion, the Aquilion ONE scanner demonstrated a significant difference in HU value, compared with the Discovery CT750 HD scanner. Regardless of CT scanner model, HU values significantly differed between DCs and OKCs (p < 0.0001), as well as between OKCs and RCs (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: HU values were found to vary among CT scanners and should always be associated with other lesion imaging features while interpreting and elaboration diagnostic hypothesis. Notably, the results suggested that OKCs might be able to be differentiated from DCs and RCs by using HU values.

The numbers of abnormal findings incidentally detected in adjacent regions are increasing with advances in imaging modalities. The present study aimed to examine the prevalence and characteristics of incidental findings in the thyroid gland on computed tomography (CT) images of the oral and maxillofacial region. CT scans of the oral and maxillofacial region in patients obtained between January 2012 and December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Images that revealed incidental findings in the thyroid gland, including nodules, were recorded, together with the sizes and characteristics of the findings. The Japan Association of Breast and Thyroid Sonology (JABTS) guidelines were used for classification. The rate of descriptions of these findings in the radiographic interpretation reports were also examined. Of the 1,135 patients examined, 326 (28.7%) had several types of incidental findings. In particular, 169 (14.9%) of the 1,135 patients had nodules >5 mm in diameter, for which further careful examination is recommended in the JABTS guideline. The description rate for nodules >5 mm in diameter in the radiographic interpretation reports was 30.8% (52/169 patients), of whom 17.3% (9/52 patients) were referred to the endocrinology department for further careful examination. Incidental findings in the thyroid gland were relatively common on CT images of the oral and maxillofacial region. Oral radiologists tend to focus specifically on the oral and maxillofacial region during diagnosis on oral and maxillofacial CT images, but should pay the same careful attention to observe adjacent regions, such as the thyroid gland.

Stafne bone defect or mandibular bone depression is defined as a bone developmental defect usually filled with soft or salivary gland tissue. Lingual posterior variant incidence is less than 0.5%. We reported a case of an 80 years old Asian female asymptomatic patient who underwent routine panoramic radiographic examination and a radiolucent area in mandible was noticed as an incidental finding, with an initial provisional diagnosis of traumatic bone cyst, aneurysmal bone cyst and lingual mandibular bone defect. The patient was then referred to multislice computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Computed tomography showed a hypodense area with discontinuity in mandible base. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a hyperintense image eroding mandibular body in contact with submandibular gland, which corresponded to fatty tissue and due to these imaging findings, the final diagnosis was lingual mandibular bone defect. Although the defect is a benign lesion and interventional treatment is not necessary, radiolucencies in mandible should be detailed investigated, due to their radiographic features that can resemble to other intrabony lesions. Imaging examinations can provide great defect details, especially magnetic resonance imaging, which can allow the identification of glandular tissue continuity to the mandibular defect.KeywordsBone cysts; Salivary glands; Magnetic resonance imaging; Computed tomography; Panoramic radiography.

Background:We herein described a rare case of schwannoma of the hypoglossal nerve in the submandibular region with diagnostic imaging and histopathological findings.Case Report:A 31-years-old woman has had a palpable firm, rubbery, freely mobile mass in the submandibular region. Of imaging, MR images showed homogeneous isointensity on T1-weighted imaging (T1-WI), heterogeneous hypointensity on T2-WI, heterogeneous hyperintensity on short T1 inversion recovery (STIR), and heterogeneous enhancement on contrast-enhanced T1-WI. A clear capsule was observed on the margin and showed hypointense on T2-WI. Dynamic MRI showed heterogeneous gradual increased enhancement. The uptake of contrast medium was regionally slow. Diagnostic imaging using CT and MRI was suspected of salivary gland tumor or neurogenic tumor. In consideration of imaging diagnosis, a pleomorphic adenoma or a schwannoma was suspected. Final diagnosis was confirmed on the basis of histopathological finding and intraoperative findings.Conclusion:1. Histopathologic examination is inevitable, because MR findings are not specific.2. Schwannomas were said to have specific MRI properties, including specific signs (split-fat sign, fascicular sign, target sign). However, they are not always observed.3. This case confirmed the differential diagnosis on the basis of the intraoperative finding that the tumor was continuous with the hypoglossal nerve.

Mandibular bone depression, also known as Stafne bone cavity, is defined as a bone depression filled mainly with salivary gland tissue. Parotid gland bone defects are infrequently observed. We report the case of a 52-year-old male patient who underwent radiographic examinations due to temporomandibular joint dysfunction, and a radiolucent area was detected in the mandibular ramus, with a provisional diagnosis of traumatic bone cyst or parotid mandibular bone defect. The patient was then referred for magnetic resonance imaging, which demonstrated a hyperintense area eroding the mandibular ramus, which corresponded to glandular tissue. Although the defect was a benign lesion, radiolucencies in the mandibular ramus lead to concerns among professionals, because their radiographic features can resemble various intrabony neoplastic lesions, such as giant cell tumors or benign tumors of the parotid gland.

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os aspectos radiográficos das glândulas salivares maiores na sialografia e seu grau de inflamação com as características individuais dos pacientes. Métodos: Trinta imagens radiográficas de ambas as glândulas parótidas e submandibulares de 25 pacientes submetidos a exames de sialografia foram analisadas retrospectivamente. O teste qui-quadrado foi realizado para correlacionar o grau de inflamação de cada área das glândulas salivares com as variáveis categóricas: sexo, tipo e lado da glândula afetada. A correlação de Pearson foi realizada para correlacionar o grau de inflamação entre o ducto principal e o ducto intraglandular e o parênquima. Resultados: Não houve relação estatisticamente significante entre o grau de inflamação de nenhuma das partes das glândulas salivares e as variáveis categóricas no teste qui-quadrado (p>0,05). O grau de inflamação no ducto principal teve uma fraca correlação com o grau de inflamação no ducto intraglandular (p0.05). The grade of inflammation in the main duct had a weak correlation with the degree of inflammation in the intraglandular duct (p

Objectives This systematic literature review addresses the use of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) for the evaluation of benign maxillomandibular odontogenic lesions. Study Design Databases were searched and original research studies or case report manuscripts up to April 2019 were included using the keyword "diffusion" combined with the keywords “maxillofacial pathology”, “oral pathology”, “odontogenic tumors”, “dental tissue neoplasms”, “odontogenic cysts”, and the histological denomination of benign odontogenic lesions according to the World Health Organization classification. Only English language manuscripts and studies pertaining to DWI were selected. Results Fifteen investigations (11 original articles and 4 case reports) regarding distinct benign odontogenic lesions were included. Most studies did not include exclusively odontogenic lesions in their samples. Conclusions It is too early to reach a conclusion that DWI and ADC can provide useful information in the differentiation of the histological type of some benign odontogenic lesions based on the available data in the literature.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) is a rare epithelial tumor of the head and neck region, and one of the most common malignant tumors of the salivary glands. ACC is a slow-growing tumor characterized by perineural invasion and often has a high-recurrence rate. We describe a case of oropharyngeal ACC invading the mandibular bone through the mandibular foramen that showed a rare pattern of origin and invasion. A 70-year-old woman complained of noise and pain around the right temporomandibular joint. Osteomyelitis was suspected on the initial imaging examinations, although the findings were slightly atypical. However, a mass was observed in the right oropharyngeal wall on subsequent imaging examinations, and mandibular bone invasion, rather than osteomyelitis, was additionally suspected. The mass in the right oropharyngeal wall and right mandible was surgically excised. On postoperative histopathological examination, the mass was finally diagnosed as ACC. As tumor cells were also observed around the inferior alveolar nerve, mandibular bone invasion through the mandibular foramen was suspected. An oropharyngeal ACC invading the mandibular bone through the mandibular foramen is extremely rare. The present case suggests that bone invasion should be considered carefully with several imaging examinations when a malignant tumor such as ACC is observed around the jaw bone.

Background To evaluate 91 cases of Stafne bone defect (SBD) in panoramic radiographs (PR) to determine the prevalence of different SBD variants, considering age, gender, and side. Additionally, to assess the most frequent imaging features of SBD. Material and Methods Participant data were collected from 91 SBD cases with PR imaging. First, SBDs were classified according to their location, as anterior, posterior, or ramus variant. SBD imaging features were classified according to radiographic imaging findings, assessing margins, degree of internal radiolucency, shape, topographic relationship between the defect and mandibular border, location of the defect according to mandibular teeth, and locularity. The topographic relationship between the SBD and the mandibular canal was described for the inferior variant only. Mean sizes were also described. Results A total of 92 SBD cases were evaluated from 91 radiographs. One case presented multiple defects. Mean patient age was 60.80 years. Men were more affected than women. The most frequent SBD variant was the posterior variant, and the least frequent was the ramus variant. The most observed radiographic features were thick sclerotic bone margin in the entire contour of the defect, partially radiolucent internal content, oval shape, continuity with mandible base without discontinuity of mandible border, third molar region location, and unilocular shape. With the posterior variant only, the most common topographic relationship between the defect and the upper wall of the mandibular canal was the defect located below the upper wall and continuous with the inferior wall of the mandibular canal. Conclusions The knowledge of common SBD radiographic imaging features in PR can help dental practitioners with the differential diagnosis of SBD. Key words:Panoramic radiograph, mandible, bone cysts, salivary glands, Stafne bone defect.

Lesão periapical crônica é uma das patologias ósseas mais comuns em dentes humanos, e é detectada primariamente por radiografia simples, como a panorâmica ou periapical. Radiografias simples são amplamente utilizadas em odontologia; no entanto, elas são limitadas por questões inerentes à técnica em si, tais como a sobreposição de estruturas anatômicas e a falta de informação sobre a extensão da lesão. Portanto, métodos radiográficos tridimensionais, como a tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico, são valiosos para avaliar com precisão as lesões periapicais. Dessa forma, este relato clínico descreve um caso em que as características radiográficas de osso levaram a um diagnóstico primário de lesão periapical crônica nos incisivos superiores, no entanto, era um defeito palatino. A radiolucência resultante foi causada pelo defeito palatino sobreposto ao osso maxilar, imitando, assim, uma lesão periapical. Além disso, no mesmo caso, demonstramos uma lesão periapical crônica verdadeira em outra área. Essa lesão apareceu como uma radiolucência sutil na radiografia periapical, mas foi maior que o esperado quando avaliada por tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico. Chronic periapical lesion is among the most usual bone pathology observed in human teeth, and it is often first detected by plain radiographs, such as panoramic or periapical radiography. Plain radiographs are widely used in dentistry; however, they have limitations inherent to the technique itself, such as anatomic structures overlapping and lack of information on the extension of the lesion. Therefore, three-dimensional radiographic methods, such as cone beam computed tomography are valuable to accurately assess periapical lesions. Thus, this clinical report describes a case in which the bone radiographic features led to a primary diagnosis of chronic periapical lesion in superior incisors, however, it was a defect in the palatal bone. The resulting radiolucency created by the palatal bone defect overlapped the maxillary bone, mimicking a periapical lesion. Additionally, in the same case, we demonstrate a true chronic periapical lesion in another area that presented as a subtle radiolucency in periapical radiography, however, it was larger than expected when evaluated in Cone Beam Computed Tomography.

The number of significant incidental findings identified on radiographic examinations has increased. In total, 169 patients, 87 males and 82 females, with a mean age of 67.3 years (range, 17-92 years), as well as 65 patients (38.5%), 43 (66.2%) female and 22 (33.8%) male had abnormal findings in the thyroid for one year in our institution. Thyroid nodules are the most common incidental findings on oral and maxillofacial evaluations. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination are frequently used to detect thyroid abnormality. The present study reported a case of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) detected following CT and MRI examination of a mandibular lesion. The CT examination of the oral and maxillofacial region included the thyroid, which must be examined carefully to detect various diseases, including PTC. Collaboration between radiologists and clinicians is important to manage these incidental findings.

Oral and maxillofacial radiology became the ninth dental specialty recognized by the American Dental Association (ADA) in 1999. This came about following the discovery of X-rays by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen in 1895 and, 14 days later, the application of X-rays to making dental radiographs by Otto Walkhoff. The purpose of this narrative study was to review the evolution of oral and maxillofacial radiology as a dental specialty in the USA and its recognition as a program of training by the West African College of Surgeons. This study was conceptualized as a narrative review of the literature focusing on the history and development of oral and maxillofacial radiology in the USA. It builds a synthesis that describes the recognition of oral and maxillofacial radiology as a specialty of dentistry in West Africa, UK, Japan, and Australia. The main finding was that oral and maxillofacial radiology became the ninth specialty recognized by the American Dental Association, ADA, in October 13, 1999. On March 20, 2014, the West African College of Surgeons recognized this specialty and granted accreditation for postgraduate training. In the UK, Japan, and Australia, the postgraduate education in oral and maxillofacial radiology has two patterns, namely professional training and academic training. The primary goal of the postgraduate training curriculum is to train radiologists who are competent to deliver care to patients in any clinical setting, including a dental school, hospital radiology practice, or private practice.

It is well known that many tumor tissues show lower apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values, and that several factors are involved in the reduction of ADC values. The aim of this study was to clarify how much each factor contributes to decreases in ADC values. We investigate the roles of cell density, extracellular space, intracellular factors, apoptosis and necrosis in ADC values using bio-phantoms. The ADC values of bio-phantoms, in which Jurkat cells were encapsulated by gellan gum, were measured by a 1.5-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging device with constant diffusion time of 30sec. Heating at 42℃ was used to induce apoptosis while heating at 48℃ was used to induce necrosis. Cell death after heating was evaluated by flow cytometric analysis and electron microscopy. The ADC values of bio-phantoms including non-heated cells decreased linearly with increases in cell density, and showed a steep decline when the distance between cells became less than 3μm. The analysis of ADC values of cells after destruction of cellular structures by sonication suggested that approximately two-thirds of the ADC values of cells originate from their cellular structures. The ADC values of bio-phantoms including necrotic cells increased while those including apoptotic cells decreased. This study quantitatively clarified the role of the cellular factors and the extracellular space in determining the ADC values produced by tumor cells. The intermediate diffusion time of 30msec might be optimal to distinguish between apoptosis and necrosis.

It is known that the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of dentigerous cysts (DCs) are the same as those of other cysts. The cavities of DCs generally show low signal intensity (SI) on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI). However, in our experience, DCs often show high SI on T1WI, rendering them difficult to distinguish from keratocystic odontogenic tumors (KCOTs). In this study, we evaluated seven cases of DC and 23 cases of KCOT to assess whether MR imaging can provide additional information for the differential diagnosis of DC and KCOT. Two trials were evaluated. The first trial was an analysis of the cystic cavity SI on T1WI. To compare the SI between patients, we performed T1WI with contrast (T1c). The second trial analyzed the SI uniformity (U Σ) on T1WI, T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), and short inversion time inversion recovery (STIR) images of the cystic cavity, because it has been reported that an MR imaging feature of KCOT is heterogeneous SI. Statistical analyses were performed using the Mann–Whitney U test and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The T1c values of DCs were significantly higher than those for KCOTs. The U Σ values on T1WI and STIR images were significantly higher for DCs than for KCOTs. The T1c cutoff values (0.66 and 0.84) and U Σ cutoff values for T1WI (82.1 %) and STIR images (79.8 %) were determined from the ROC analyses. T1c and U Σ values provide useful additional information for the differential diagnosis of DC and KCOT.

Two kinds of different malignant tumors occurring within the same organ is defined as collision tumor. Small Cell Carcinoma (SmCC) is high-grade derived from neuroendocrine cell tumors, occurance in the head and neck is rare. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the most common malignancies encountered in head and neck area, but the occuranceof collision tumor is very rare. This report describe a 82 year-old woman patient with a SmCC and SCC that occurred in the maxillary sinus. CT was performed including with enhancement, MRI examination was T1WI, STIR and contrast enhancement. We also conducted analysis of Dynamic Contrast Enhancement (DCE). Histopathologic examination revealed small cell carcinoma. A distant metastasis was not detected. After patient received chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), most of tumorwas reduced although a part of the tumor was remained. Pathological examination of surgery tumor specimen revealed that specimen consisted of SCC and SmCC was disappeared, and six months after surgery, the patient suffered tumor recurrence and multiple metastasis to the organs in the abdomen. This time we have to report that the experience one cases that are considered collision cancer of SmCC and SCC that occurred in the maxillary sinus.

Summary Ameloblastomas and keratocystic odontogenic tumors (KCOT) are typical jawbone tumors. In addition, dentigerous cysts (DC) and radicular cysts are the most common cystic jawbone lesions, and simple bone cysts (SBC) are the most common jawbone pseudocysts. When these lesions are unilocular, it can be difficult to diagnose them by radiography. In recent years, adding magnetic resonance (MR) imaging to obtain information about soft tissue has been shown to improve the accuracy of jawbone lesion diagnosis. We also have reported MR imaging features of jawbone lesions. However, no systematic method for MR imaging diagnosis of jawbone lesions has been reported. In this review, we examine unilocular lesions such as ameloblastoma, KCOT, adenomatoid odontogenic tumour (AOT), DC, and SBC. First, we describe the MR imaging features of each lesion. Then, we describe our novel MR imaging diagnostic protocol. Using our MR imaging diagnostic protocol to diagnose 31 cases, we obtained a positivity rate of 71.0%. The use of our MR imaging diagnostic protocol for unilocular lesions, which are especially difficult to differentiate by radiography, would improve the morphological and qualitative diagnosis of soft tissue lesions.

Ameloblastic carcinoma is a rare malignant odontogenic carcinoma that has metastatic potential, and because of its rare incidence, there are few reports focusing on its radiologic imaging. If it shows aggressive appearances, it can be diagnosed as malignant tumor. But in case of negative appearance, it is difficult to distinguish ameloblastic carcinoma from ameloblastoma. We report a case of ameloblastic carcinoma of the maxilla in a 76-year-old female patient with radiologic images and pathologic features.

Typical MR images of ameloblastomas on T2-weighted image (WI) or short inversion time inversion-recovery (STIR) show multiple bright high-signal-intensity loci on a high-signal-intensity background. Unilocular cystic-type ameloblastomas show homogeneously bright high signal intensity on T2WI or STIR as a water-like signal intensity. Therefore, it is difficult to distinguish unilocular cystic-type ameloblastoma from other cystic lesions such as keratocystic odontogenic tumors, radicular cysts (residual cysts) and dentigerous cysts only on the basis of MRI signal intensity. In the present study, we evaluated whether contrast-enhanced (CE)-T1WI and dynamic CE-MRI (DCE-MRI) could provide additional information for differential diagnosis in unilocular cystic-type ameloblastoma. Images from 12 cases of suspected unilocular cystic-type ameloblastoma were evaluated in the present study. Of them, 5 had areas suspected of indicating a solid component on T1WI and T2WI (or STIR). Ten had undergone additional CE-T1WI and DCE-MRI. On 5 of 10 cases of CE-T1WI, a tiny enhancement area was detected. On 6 of 10 DCE-images, a time-course enhanced area which was suspected to be a solid component was detected. CE-T1WI was helpful in the diagnosis of ameloblastoma because the tiny enhanced areas were taken to indicate possible solid components. Moreover, the rim-enhancement area on CE-T1WI could be divided into small regions of interest, and some of these showed slightly increased enhancement on DCE-MRI, which was taken to indicate a solid component and/or intramural nodule with focal invasion of ameloblastoma tissue. DCE-MRIs of the four remaining cases, which provided no clues to the diagnosis of ameloblastoma in the manner of the above descriptions, showed thicker rim enhancement than odontogenic cysts. Thus, CE-T1WI and DCE-MRI were helpful in the differential diagnosis of unilocular cystic-type ameloblastomas with homogeneously bright high signal intensity on T2WI or STIR.

Aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) are classified as bone-related lesions based on the 2005 World Health Organization histological classification of odontogenic tumors. Most ABCs are diagnosed using a combination of conventional radiography, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and digital subtraction angiography. ABCs should be differentiated from true cysts or other pseudocysts because their treatment is different. Additionally, unlike other cysts, ABCs pose a hemorrhagic risk in surgery; thus, preoperative evaluation of intralesional blood flow is required. Here we report a case of a mandibular ABC in a 39-year-old woman and focus on its dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) features. On DCE-MRI, the lesion was divided into two areas according to the enhancement pattern: the blood-pooling and blood-flow areas. The series of DCE-MR images of the blood-pooling area showed marked enhancement of the margin, but no enhancement in the inner part of the cavity. Additionally, the time-signal intensity curve (TIC) demonstrated no change in the signal intensity (SI) until approximately 15 min after gadolinium-diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid (Gd-DTPA) administration. In contrast, the series of DCE-MR images of the blood-flow area exhibited marked enhancement in the cyst cavity in the early phase. The TIC showed a rapid increase in SI in the early phase, followed by a rapid decrease until 150 s, and finally a gradual decrease until approximately 15 min after Gd-DTPA administration. Thus, in the current patient, preoperative DCE-MRI clearly delineated the vessel-rich area within the lesion.

Introduction It can be difficult to differentiate simple bone cysts (SBCs) from true cysts in the jaw when these lesions appear unilocular. The present study reports the MR imaging of subjects with SBCs and describes the diagnostic value of the MRI findings. Materials and methods Ten subjects with SBCs in the jaw were examined using MRI. T1- and T2-weighted images (T1WI, T2WI) were obtained, and contrast-enhanced images and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) were acquired. Results In all cases, the contrast-enhanced T1WI acquired approximately 6 minutes after the administration of Gd-DTPA showed marked enhancement of the margin and slight enhancement of the inner part of the cyst cavity. In all cases, the time–signal intensity (SI) curves show a gradual increase in the SI until approximately 15 minutes after the administration of Gd-DTPA. These findings might not be observed on the DCE-MRIs of the other true cysts with epithelial lining that show no enhancement in a cavity. Conclusion MRI, especially DCE-MRI, can provide useful information for distinguishing SBCs from other cysts.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the correlations among various temporomandibular joint (TMJ) findings on MRI and the relationships between MRI findings and symptoms. METHODS: 425 patients (850 TMJs) with temporomandibular joint disorders (TMDs) who underwent MRI were enrolled. Oblique sagittal proton density-weighted and T (2) weighted images in open- and closed-mouth positions were evaluated. MRI findings included disc configuration, disc position, condylar morphology, bone marrow pattern, and joint effusion. Symptoms included TMJ pain, TMJ noise, and limitation of mouth opening. For statistical analyses, Spearman's rank correlation coefficient and logistic regression analysis were applied. RESULTS: Folded disc, disc displacement without reduction (DDWOR), and osteophytes had significant negative correlations with other normal MRI findings (p < 0.01). DDWOR and marrow edema were associated with TMJ pain. Conversely, osteophytes [odds ratio (OR): 0.52; 95% CI (0.30–0.90)] and combination-type condylar degeneration [OR: 0.45; 95% CI (0.24–0.83)] were associated with decreased risk of TMJ pain. Condylar flattening was positively associated with TMJ noise [OR: 5.25; 95% CI (1.44–19.07)] and negatively associated with limitation of mouth opening [OR: 0.34; 95% CI (0.11–0.99)]. High-grade joint effusion was significantly associated with TMJ pain and noise. CONCLUSIONS: DDWOR and high-grade joint effusion (an indicator of inflammation in the articular cavity) were associated with TMD symptoms. This finding suggests that treatment strategy for DDWOR and decreasing inflammation might lessen clinical TMD symptoms. Condylar degeneration was not associated with indicators of inflammation or TMJ symptoms. These results suggest that patients with TMD symptoms should undergo initial MRI to allow rapid selection of appropriate therapies.

Odontoma is the most common type of benign odontogenic tumor, and often causes disturbances in the eruption of its associated tooth. Odontomas usually occur in the permanent dentition, and rarely occur solely in the primary dentition. This case report documents a six-year-old-child with a compound odontoma located in the mandible, which caused the impaction of the primary second molar.

Summary We evaluated the relationship between histopathological prognostic factors, tumor proliferation microvessel density (MVD), and enhancement parameters in dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) in oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Twenty-eight T2 and T3 patients with primary oral SCC underwent DCE-MRI using three-dimensional fast imaging with a steady-state precession sequence. Tumor cell proliferation and MVD of all surgical specimens were evaluated using immunohistochemical staining with CD34 and the antibody for proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Regression analysis was used to statistically analyze the relationship between the PCNA labeling index or MVD and each of three DCE-MRI parameters: maximum CI (CI-max), maximum CI gain (CI-gain) and the CI-gain / CI-max ratio). The PCNA labeling index and MVD showed significant correlations with the CI-gain/CI-max ratio ( P = 0.0012, r = 0.581 and P = 0.00141, r = 0.574, respectively). The assessment of DCE-MRI parameters may prove to be a valuable non-invasive method for assessing tumor cell proliferation and MVD of patients with oral cancer.

Objectives To compare MRI manifestations according to gender and age and to identify correlations between clinical manifestations and MRI findings in patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) as based on a large series. Materials and Methods Fat suppressed oblique sagittal images of the open and closed mouth were acquired, and MRI scanning parameters were applied. Results The patients consisted of 946 females (average, 36.6 years old), and 319 males (average, 34.3 years old). In all TMD patients, 945 had symptoms in the unilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and 320 in the bilateral TMJ. There were significant differences in the distribution of disk positions based on age, regardless of gender, in the unilaterally and bilaterally symptomatic groups; however, the results were not significant in the asymptomatic group. There were significant differences with respect to the distribution of disk positions between males and females in asymptomatic group and in the unilaterally symptomatic group, although the bilaterally symptomatic group did not show significant differences in this regard. As regards the disk positions in the joints of the three groups (asymptomatic group, unilaterally and bilaterally symptomatic groups), there were significant interactive effects of disk positions, regardless of gender. There were statistically significant age-related differences in disk deformities in all symptom groups, regardless of gender, except for in the group of males lacking symptoms in either joint. As regards disk deformities among the three groups studies here, there were significant interactive effects for disk positions, regardless of gender.

To examine oral and maxillofacial lesions other than those related to the chief complaint in panoramic radiographs taken at the department of paediatric dentistry at our hospital.We retrospectively reviewed all 1092 patients who had visited the department of paediatric dentistry at our hospital and had a panoramic radiograph taken between August 1999 and October 2004. The following information was obtained from the patients' files and panoramic radiographs: gender, age, chief complaints and the presence or absence of lesions.Lesions were observed in 140 of the 1092 panoramic radiographs (12.8%). Among the 140 patients discovered to have lesions in the panoramic radiographs, 66 (47.1%, or 6.05% of the entire group of 1092 patients) had different lesions from those underlying the chief complaint. These 66 patients ages ranged from 3 years to 14 years and the lesions involved 39 (59.1%) missing teeth, 20 (30.3%) mesiodentes, 4 supernumerary teeth, 1 odontoma, 1 radicular cyst and 1 impacted tooth. The missing teeth were observed in the central and lateral incisor, canine, and first and second premolar positions of both jaws, especially in the lower lateral incisor and upper central incisor positions.We were able to detect incidental lesions at a rate of 6.05% (66 of 1092 patients) and at a relatively early age (mean 6.8 years) in the present study. Early treatment of these lesions could avoid maxillofacial deformity and other complications.

Various types of lesion have been reported in the submental region, but submental masses can be difficult to diagnose. Our objective was to attempt to diagnose submental masses by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) along with clinical data. We attempted to diagnose seven cases in which the chief complaint was submental swelling; diagnosis was carried out on the basis of features visualized by MRI. Seven types of lesions were observed: phlegmone and abscess caused by osteomyelitis; epidermoid cyst; thyroglossal duct cyst; abscess-forming granulomatous lymphadenitis; T-cell lymphoma (suspected Hodgkin’s disease); non-Hodgkin’s B-cell lymphoma; and lymph node metastasis from squamous cell carcinoma in the tongue. The magnetic resonance images of each lesion revealed characteristic features. Thus, MRI may be useful for the differential diagnosis of submental swelling before the initiation of treatment.

The radiographical differentiation of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor (AOT) from dentigerous cysts, calcifying odontogenic cysts, calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumors, odontogenic keratocysts and amelobastomas is sometimes difficult. We attempted to differentiate AOT from other lesions similar to AOT in radiographic findings using MRI. The MRI features of AOT in our three cases included homogeneous low SI in the cystic portion and homogeneous intermediate SI in the solid portion on T1WI, homogeneous high SI in the cystic portion and intermediate to slightly high SI in the solid portion on T2WI and enhancement of only the solid portion on CE-T1WI although none of the sequences included SI of calcifications. The contrast index curves in the three cases of AOT showed a gradual increase to 300 s, which signified a benign tumor. These MRI features were characteristic features of AOT and might be a basis for differentiating AOT from the above possible lesions in radiographic examinations.

In this study, we attempted to diagnose malignant lymphoma on the basis of magnetic resonance imagings (MRIs) and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI). Eighteen lesions (in eight patients), all of which had been proven histopathologically, were detected on MRI. The eight patients included five patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, one with B-cell low-grade MALT lymphoma, one with follicular lymphoma, and one with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Nine lesions were located in the submandibular region, three in the buccal region, two in the orbit region, two in the submental region, and one each in the palatal and tonsil regions. The diameter of the lesions ranged between 9 and 42.2 mm (average: 22.4 mm). The signal intensities (SIs) of the 18 lesions were examined on T1-weighted (T1WI), T2WI, and gadopentetate (Gd)-T1WI. One lesion in case 8 was excluded from DCE-MRI findings, i.e., the regions of interest could not be adequately set on DCE-MRIs. The contrast index (CI) curves of the remaining 17 lesions were prepared. All 18 lesions showed almost the same images on T1WI, T2WI, and Gd-T1WI, although they represented four types of lymphoma. The images showed homogeneous SI that was intermediate to slightly high SI on T1WI, slightly high SI on T2WI, and moderately enhanced on Gd-T1WI. Thus, the cases of malignant lymphoma in this study showed relatively characteristic features based on MRI; however, these features might be non-specific. The CI curves in this study showed a relatively rapid increase, reaching a maximum CI at 45–120 s, and a relatively rapid decrease in most lesions (14/17; 82.4%); on the other hand, the curves of 3 of the 15 lesions (17.6%) showed relatively rapid increase, sustenance of a plateau, and a gradual decrease thereafter. These patterns of CI curves may indicate characteristic features useful for distinguishing malignant lymphomas from other lesions.

We describe a case of angioleiomyoma in the buccal space, and discuss its magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features with histopathological correlation, with particular emphasis on the usefulness of using dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE-MRI) to differentiate other possible tumors. Angioleiomyoma of the buccal space in this case corresponded clinically and histopathologically to the previous reports. The characteristic findings of angioleiomyoma were a very high signal intensity on T2WI, and extremely high enhancement on Gd-T1WI. The inner aspect of this lesion was homogeneous on both T1WI and T2WI. However, the histopathological findings included tumor substance, mucous degeneration, and mature adipose cells, and these findings were reflected only on the DCE-MRI. Furthermore, the CI-Curve of the angioleiomyoma showed a characteristic pattern, which might differentiate it from other tumors.

We examined the frequency of incidentally found or unexpected tumors discovered at the time of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) region for patients with suspicion of TMJ arthrosis. Five MR images (T1-weighted transverse scout image and proton density and T2-weighted oblique sagittal images at the open and closed mouth) were acquired. In 2776 MRI examinations of TMJ arthrosis, two tumors were discovered. They consisted of an adenoid cystic carcinoma in the deep portion of the parotid gland, and a malignant tumor extending from the infratemporal fossa to the parapharyngeal space. The rate of incidentally founded or unexpected tumors in TMJ examinations was low (0.072%), but the two tumors found were malignant tumors, and therefore, scout image should be carefully examined, not only used for positing the slice.

Lesions that can produce divergence of the roots of teeth in the mandible include odontogenic cysts (odontogenic keratocysts, lateral periodontal cysts and radicular cysts), ameloblastomas, odontogenic myxomas, central giant cell granulomas, adenomatoid odontogenic tumors and aneurismal bone cysts, and other tumors. Moreover most benign jaw lesions can do this occasionally. However, when lesions--which show interradicular tear-shaped radiolucencies--are small it is often difficult to interpret them radiographically, because they do not show characteristic radiographic features. We describe a comparison of radiographic and magnetic resonance (MR) features of a root-diverging odontogenic myxoma, with discussion of the differential diagnosis of lesions likely to move roots. In addition, we discuss radiographic and MR features of possible lesions, which show similar radiographic findings to odontogenic myxoma.

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a relatively rare, non-neoplastic expansile lesion of bone. Bleeding may occur during an operation or biopsy for ABC, as this cyst is an aneurys with numerous pools of blood. Therefore, it is necessary to diagnose ABC before treatment or biopsy. In the present report, we describe the characteristic computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of ABC in the mandible. Based on the literature and on our own experiences, we compare with the features of ABC with the corresponding features of other lesions showing similar conventional radiographic appearances. In the present case, bone-targeting CT showed the characteristic feature, which reflected the histopathological appearance of a partially cystic meshwork divided by coarse septa. MRI showed almost homogeneous intermediate signal intensity, including a partial slight low-signal-intensity area on the T1-weighted image, and homogeneous high signal intensity, which showed a 'bubbly' appearance, on T2-weighted image. On the enhanced T1-weighted image, the intermediate signal intensity areas apart from the areas that showed slight low-signal intensity on the non-enhanced T1-weighted image, were well enhanced. This creates a 'honeycomb' appearance. The 'meshwork' appearance on bone-targeting CT, the 'bubbly' appearance on the T2WI and the 'honeycomb' appearance on Gd-T1WI may be the characteristic features of ABC.

Adenomatoid odontogenic tumor is a rare benign and odontogenic tumor that is frequently misdiagnosed as other odontogenic cysts and tumors on radiographic examination. To acquire additional information of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor, we performed magnetic resonance imagings (MRI) at a case of adenomatoid odontogenic tumor. The lesion was divided between the peripheral portion with a thick circular shape and the central portion with a round shape on the basis of the signal intensity (SI) of MRI. The peripheral portion showed intermediate SI contained multifocal no SI on T1WI, high SI contained multifocal no SI on T2WI, and heterogeneous enhancement on CE-T1WI. These multifocal areas corresponded to the numerous punctate radiopaque foci shown on computed tomography. The central portion showed homogeneous low SI on T1WI, homogeneous very high SI on T2WI, and no enhancement on CE-T1WI. Macroscopic examination revealed the round shaped lesion included one large cystic space correspondent to the central portion with a clear cystic wall correspondent to the peripheral portion on MRI. The MRI features corresponded to the macroscopic findings of the histopathological examination.

It is often difficult to radiographically distingush odontogenic myxomas from ameloblastomas. In the present study, we tried to differentiate odontogenic myxomas from ameloblastomas using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (dynamic MRI). Two cases of ameloblastoma with cystic companents and two cases of odontogenic myxoma were compared by dynamic MRI. The dynamic MRI features of solid areas of ameloblastomas showed a rapid enhancement, reaching maximum contrast at 45–60 s, and maintained these enhancement levels or showed a gradual wash-out to 600 s thereafter; in contrast, those of the cystic areas of ameloblastomas showed no enhancement. The dynamic MRI features of the whole area of odontogenic myxomas (we considered the whole area to be the tumor substance in the odontogenic myxomas, as based on histopathological examinations) showed a gradual increase in enhancement at 500–600 s. The central portions of the odontogenic myxomas, which did not appear to be enhanced on Gd-T1 weighted images also showed a gradual increase in enhancement at 500–600 s, though the increase was minimal. These results indicate that the dynamic MRI features of odontogenic myxomas are different from those of ameloblastomas. Therefore, dynamic MRI may be a useful tool for diagnosis of myxoma.

We examined three patients with multiple synchronous Warthin’s tumors in the bilateral parotid and described the value of using dynamic MRI. The time course of the contrast index (CI curves) was calculated from a dynamic series. Warthin’s tumors showed intermediate signal intensity on T1WI, heterogeneous high and intermediate signal intensity on T2WI and a slight enhancement on Gd-T1WI. Warthin’s tumors of CI curves showed specific findings. CI curves in each lesion showed the same pattern. It was difficult to diagnose masses as Warthin’s tumors using only MR images on T1, T2 and Gd-T1WI. Dynamic MRI can distinguish Warthin’s tumors from other possible tumors except for oncocytoma. Therefore, the use of dynamic MRI is recommended as a diagnostic method for Warthin’s tumors in multiple synchronous lesions of the parotid gland.

OBJECTIVE: Odontoma is a comparatively common odontogenic tumor, and it may lead to interference with the eruption of its associated tooth. Odontomas are mostly associated with permanent teeth, and they are rarely associated with deciduous teeth. The purpose of this report is to analyze 107 odontomas and to present a case of complex odontoma associated with a lower deciduous second molar. SUBJECT AND METHODS: The 106 cases were analyzed with regard to the following parameters: age, gender, location, erupted teeth, congenital missing teeth, radiological features, histopathological features and prognosis. RESULTS: Of the 106 cases, 41 were complex odontoma, 62 were compound odontoma, and three were immature odontoma. Compound odontoma had a predilection for the anterior. Complex odontoma occurred more often at the mandible. CONCLUSION: Odontoma located above the tooth crown of lower deciduous molar did not behave clinically different from that associated with permanent tooth. An odontoma could be related with a supernumerary tooth or a missing tooth. If odontomas, which interfered with tooth eruption, were extirpated early, the impacted teeth would probably erupt normally and be normal in shape.

The localized form of amyloidosis affecting the head and neck region is rare. The characteristic features of localized amyloidosis appeared as multiple nodules on the tongue, lip, and cheek on computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Contrast-enhanced CT scans represented this lesion as a marked nodular enhancement. MR features of this lesion appeared slightly low on T1-weighted images and slightly high on T2-weighted images compared with T1-T2 images of residual normal tongue. Time contrast intensity curves obtained from dynamic MRI rapidly increased to reach a plateau and gradually decreased during the late and delayed phases. MR findings suggest that such lesions might be comprised of fibrous tissue with abundant vessels. This report suggests that dynamic MRI might be helpful for diagnosing localized amyloidosis.