Metastatic cervical carcinoma of the jaw presenting as periapical disease

Abstract

Although metastatic tumours of the jaws are uncommon, they may mimic benign inflammatory processes and reactive lesions. The ability of metastatic lesions to mimic periapical disease is discussed and a brief review of the literature is presented, emphasizing the importance of correct diagnosis to prevent delay in diagnosing cancer. Attention should therefore be given to the patient's medical history, especially of those with a previous history of cancer, and all dental practitioners should be aware of the possibility of metastases that may be confused with periapical disease. Finally, endodontists are well placed to recognize malignant and metastatic oral lesions during the initial clinical stages, given that their treatments are usually based on frequent dental appointments and long-term follow-ups.

Dental developmental anomalies and post-eruption dental disorder

“…Radiolucent lesions showed low incidence reported in the literature and this result is similar to the results 3 . Radiolucid lesions were associated with the root apex are caused by reactions of periapical tissue to inflammatory stimulus, but may mimic more severe lesions such as lymphomas and oral metastasis, as described in other studies 20,21 .…”

Orbital apex syndrome affecting head and neck cancer patients: A case series

“…The diagnosis of OAS is clinical; however, a detailed history and physical examination should be performed (12,13). Imaging is important in discerning the causative etiology (2,3).…”

“…Overall, up to 80% of all HNC patients are diagnosed with advanced stages of the disease, presenting poor prognoses and requir-ing aggressive multimodality treatment (7,12,14) in association with multidisciplinary supportive care where dental oncologists may contribute to the early diagnosis of the disease relapse or relevant complications of tumor progression, such as OAS. Thus, this case series highlights the importance of interactions among dentists, oncologists, and physicians involved in HNC treatment to improve the early recognition of OAS and promote patient prognosis.…”