Multidetector computed tomography of jaw lesions in children and adolescents

Abstract

Jaw lesions in paediatric and adolescent population are uncommon and can arise in odontogenic or non-odontogenic tissues. With the advent of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), algorithm for imaging jaw lesions has changed dramatically. This pictorial essay describes the imaging appearance of commonly encountered jaw lesions in children and adolescents with emphasis on MDCT findings.

Complex and Compound Odontomas

“…8,10 Compound odontomas present an irregular radiopaque image with variations in contour and size, composed of multiple radio-opacities corresponding to the small malformed or rudimentary teeth (denticles). 8,26 Instead, complex odontomas appear as disorganized irregular masses. 8,26 Histologically, compound odontomas are usually toothlike structures comprising central cores of pulp tissue surrounded by shells of dentin and partially covered by demineralized enamel and primary cement.…”

“…8,26 Instead, complex odontomas appear as disorganized irregular masses. 8,26 Histologically, compound odontomas are usually toothlike structures comprising central cores of pulp tissue surrounded by shells of dentin and partially covered by demineralized enamel and primary cement. 8,10 Instead, complex odontomas are made up of haphazard conglomerates of immature dentin, enamel, enamel matrix, cementum, and pulp tissue.…”

A Pattern-based Imaging Approach to Pediatric Jaw Lesions

“…The high prevalence of dental disease in children results in inflammatory, infective, and reactive processes having substantial overlap in imaging features with more serious locally aggressive tumors or malignant conditions, thereby requiring invasive tissue diagnosis for proper management in some cases. 1 2 …”

“…Multiple imaging modalities, like orthopantomograph (OPG), multidetector computed tomography (MDCT), cone beam CT (CBCT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are available for the workup of jaw lesions. 2 3 …”

“…Certain lesions like aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) with characteristic diagnostic imaging appearance do not need biopsy, whereas for other lesions, imaging may help select the appropriate biopsy site. 1 2 …”