HOME HELP FEEDBACK SUBSCRIPTIONS ARCHIVE SEARCH TABLE OF CONTENTS		QUICK SEARCH:   [advanced] Author: Keyword(s): Year:  Vol:  Page:

This Article Figures Only Full Text Full Text (PDF) CME Test (opens in a new window) Submit a response Alert me when this article is cited Alert me when eLetters are posted Alert me if a correction is posted Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Similar articles in PubMed Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Dunfee, B. L. Articles by Gohel, A. Search for Related Content PubMed PubMed Citation Articles by Dunfee, B. L. Articles by Gohel, A. Related Collections Musculoskeletal Radiology Neuroradiology Head and Neck

Radiologic and Pathologic Characteristics of Benign and Malignant Lesions of the Mandible¹

¹ From the Departments of Radiology (B.L.D., O.S.) and Pathology (R.P.), Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, 715 Albany St, Boston, MA 02118; and the Department of Diagnostic Sciences and Pathology, Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine, Boston, Mass (A.G.). Recipient of a Certificate of Merit award for an education exhibit at the 2004 RSNA Annual Meeting. Received October 19, 2005; revision requested March 7, 2006 and received May 30; accepted May 31. All authors have no financial relationships to disclose. Address correspondence to B.L.D. (e-mail: Brian.Dunfee{at}bmc.org).

Mandibular lesions develop from both odontogenic and nonodontogenic origins and have varying degrees of destructive potential. Common benign cystic lesions include periapical (radicular) cysts, follicular (dentigerous) cysts, and odontogenic keratocysts. Benign solid tumors represent a broad spectrum of lesions such as ameloblastomas, odontomas, ossifying fibromas, and periapical cemental dysplasia. Malignant tumors that often involve the mandible include squamous cell carcinomas, osteosarcomas, and metastatic tumors. In addition, vascular lesions such as hemangiomas and arteriovenous malformations may develop, further expanding the differential diagnosis. Because mandibular lesions have a wide range of pathologic features but similar imaging appearances, familiarity with embryologic characteristics and secondary findings is crucial. Patient age at manifestation, prevalence, location within the mandible, cystic or solid appearance, border contour, and effect of the lesion on adjacent structures are all considerations in making the diagnosis. Despite this information, however, many lesions are impossible to differentiate without biopsy. In such cases, defining the degree of malignant potential is very helpful. Although imaging will not always provide a specific diagnosis, it should help narrow the differential diagnosis, thereby helping to guide patient treatment.

© RSNA, 2006