Professional Documents
Culture Documents
The congenital absence of many, but not all, teeth is known as:
. H,?odontia
. Oligodontia
. Diphyodontia
. Anodontia
. Type I
' Type II
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. Mesiodens
. Concrescence
. Fusion
. Dens in Dente
\Iesiodens appear situated in the maxilla near the midline and almost always posterior to
the normal central incisors. Many of them, therefore, are bypassed by the permanent
incisors $'hich are permitted to erupt into their normal position in the arch.
Remember:
. Fusion: is a developmental union of two or more teeth in which the dentin and one
other dental tissue are united /rn ay be the root). See picture #6 in booklt
. Concrescence: is a condition in which only the cementum of two or more teeth be-
comes united. See picture #7 in booklet
. Dens in dente /a/so called dens invaginatus)r means "tooth within a tooth"' it is
caused by a deep invagination ofthe enamel organ during formation, most likely found
associated with a maxillary lateral incisor. See picture #5 in booklet
. Molars
.lncisors
. Premolars
. Canines
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. Enamel pearls
. Enamel hypoplasia
. Regional odontodysplasia
Enamel hypoplasia is a developmcntal def'ect in which the cnamel ofthe tccth is hard in contcxt but
thin and dcficient in amount. It results from incomplete formation ofthe enamel matrix with a
deficiency in the cementing substance. Enamel hypoplasia a1l'ects both the deciduous and pcnna-
nent teeth. It is usually due to illness or injury during tooth formation or due to a genetic disorder
Note: Thc gcnetic lbrms ofcnamel hypoplasia arc generally considcred to be types ofamelogen-
esis imperfecta.
The clinical appearance ofenamel hypoplasia includes: l) the lack ofcontact between teeth, 2) the
rapid breakdown ofocclusal surfaces, 3) a yellowish-brorvn stain that appears whcre the dentin is
exposed. Note: lfonly one permancnt tooth is affected, it is usually caused by physical damagc or
periapical infections to the primary tooth that this pernanent tooth replaced. This is known as
"Turner's h-vpoplasia."
Remember: Enarncl hypocalcification is a hereditary dental dcfcct in which thc enamel is soft and
undercalcificd in context yct normal in quantity. It is caused by the dcfective maturation of
amcloblasts ftrere r.r a defect in the mineraliz tion ofthe fonned matrir). The teeth are chalky in
consistency, the surfaces wear down rapidly and a yellow to brown stain appears as the underlying
dentin is exposcd. This condition affects both the deciduous and permanent teeth as well.
See picture #9 in booklt
\ote: Regional odontodysplasia involves the hard tissues that are derived from both epithelial
(enarnel) an<l mesenchymal (dentin and cemenhnt) components of thc tooth-fonning apparatus.
Thc tccth in a region or quadrant of the maxilla or mandible are affccted to thc extent that they
exhibit short roots, open apical foramina' and enlarged pulp chambers' The thinness and poor
mineralization quality ofthe enamel and dentin layers havc given rise to thl; term "ghost teeth."
The permanent teeth are aflected more than the primary teeth , and the maxillary anteriol teeth are
affccted more than other teeth. The cause is unknown, although nume.ous etiologic factors have
been suggested /1.e., trauma, nutritional defcie cies, inlbcliotts). Because ofthe poor quality ofthe
affected teeth, their rcmoval is usually indicated.
ORAL PATHOLOGY Abn of Tth
. Fusion
. Twinning
. Concresence
. Gemination
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. Because ofthe enamel malformation, the teeth ofindividuals with amelogenesis imper-
fecta are often discolored, sensitive to temperature changes, and painful to brush
. The teeth appear yellow. because the dentin is visible through the thin enamel
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Remember:
. Gemination is a division of a single tooth germ by invagination. This results in the incomplete tbr-
mation oftwo tceth. Frcquently occurs in the incisor region
. Fusion is an abnormally shaped tooth that may appcar as an extra wide crown, a normal crown rvrth
an extra root. or other combinations fesulting from the union of two adjacent tooth gcrms by dentin
during development.
. Concresence is the union ofthe roots of two or more normal teeth caused by con'flucnce of their
cemental surfaces.
. Trvinning is the completc division of a single tooth bud. The dividert teeth are secn as com-
pletelySepalatewithnoconnectiontoeachotherexcepteachtendstobemirrorimageofthe
other
. Ank:-losis is the fusion of the cementum or dentin to the surrounding alveolar bone after loss
oflhe intervcning periodontal membrane lt is associated \Pith hypodontia The most commonly anky-
losed tooth is the pfimary second molar; the pemanent second premolar is the tooth that fails to de-
\ elop and crupt. Clinically, percussion ofthe anlllosed tooth produces a drrll sound
\ote: There is a change in the continuity ofthe occlusal plane which is caused by the continued erup-
rion ofthe non-ankylosed teeth and the growth ofthe alveolar process
clinicallJ,, gemination and fusion can look similar. when counting these tceth, the "larger" tooth should
It cc)unred as a single tooth. ln gemination, the patient has a larger tooth but a normal numbel ofteeth
o\ erall. In fusion, the patienl has a larger tooth, but one lcss tooth than normal "
-{melogenesis imp erlecta (AI) is a relatively rare group ofinherited disorders characterized
bl abnormal enamel formation. The term amelogenesis imperfecta is reserved for hereditary
defects ofenamel that are not associated with defects in other parts ofthe body or other health
problems. lt is a hereditary ectodrmal defect, unlike dentinogenesis imperfecta which is a
hereditary rnesodemral defect.
The AI enamel defects are highly variable and include abnomralities that are classified as hy-
poplastic defect in amount ofenamel),hypomaturatron (defect in fnal grov'tlt and mqhration
ol'euottel crystallites), andhypocalcified (defect in initial crystallite Jbnnation followed by de-
te. ti\ e gt'ovlh). The enamel in both the hypomaturation and hypocalcified Al rypes is not min-
eralized to the level of normal enamel and can be described as hypomineralized Al can be
intrerited as an x-linked, autosomal recessive (,4RJ, or autosomal dominant (AD) cor'ditiorr.
The color ofthe enamel ranges from white opaque to yellow to brown, it is reduced in volume
and pitled. Contact points between teeth are often open and occlusal surfaces and incisal edges
frequently are severely abraded. Although the enamel are soft and irregular, there is no in-
crease jn caries mte. Note: Open bite is a common clinical finding.
The radiographic findings are fiequently distinctive and pathognomonic. when the enamel
is totally absent, the radiographic appearance makes the diagnosis obvious. When some enamel
is present, thin radiopaque coverings on the proximal surfaces ofthe teeth are noted. When the
anatonic crown forms are normal or nearly normal, the softness ofthe defective enamel may
not be easily distinguished from the dentin. ln all cases, howevel the dentin' pulp and ce-
mentum are unaffected by the disease process itself(arlr*e dentinogenesis inperkdq).
See picture #8 and #10 in booklet
Exception: Amelogenesis imperfecta will only show pulp obliteration if there is advanced
abrasion with secondary dentin formation.
Other than cosmetic restoration, no treatment is necessary.
. Erosion
. Abfraction
. Attrition
. Abrasion
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. Dentinogenesis imperfecta
. Erythroblastosis fetalis
. Porphyria
. Fluorosis
. Diabetes mellitus
. Pulpal injury
. Intemal resorption
. Tetracyclines 9
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See picture #13 in booklet
Types ofabrasion:
l. Toothbrush abrasion: most olten results in V-shaped wedges at the cervical margin
in the canine and premolar areas. lt is caused by the use ofa hard toothbrush and/or
a horizontal brushing stroke and/or a gritty dentifrice.
2. Occlusal abrasion: results in flattened cusps on all posterior teeth and wom incisal
edges. lt results from the chewing or biting ofhard foods or objects and chewing tob-
acco.
. Attrition is the wearing away of enamel and dentin due to the normal function or most
commonly, due to the excessive grinding or gdtting together oftecth by the patient lreJbrced
to a.r bruxism). The most noticeable effects ofattrition are polished facets, flat incisal edges.
discolored surfaces ofthe teeth and exposed dentin. Facets usually develop on the linguoin-
cisal of the maxillary central incisors, the facioincisal of the mandibular canines and the
linguoincisal ofthe maxillary canines. See picture #14 in booklet
. Erosion is the loss of tooth structure from non-mechanical means. It can result from
drinking acidic liquids or eating acidic foods. It is common in bulimic individuals as a re-
sult of regurgitated stomach acids. It affects smooth and occlusal surlaces.
See picture #12 in booklet
. Abfraction lesions are cervical erosive lesions that can not be attributed to any partic-
ular cause: causing the enamel to "pop'' off starting at the base ofthe tooth and exposing
the gum Iine ofthe tooth to excessive wear See picture #11 in booklet
E\trinsic stains can be caused by bacteria, iron, tobacco, foods, beverages, gingival hem-
orhage. restorative materials and medications.
Treatment:
. lIost extrinsic stains can be removed with abrasives; reduce or eliminate cause of
stain
. Intrinsic stains may need bleaching, esthetic restorations, or prosthetic rehabilitation
ORAL PATHOLOGY Abn of Tth
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. Type | (H.vpoplastic)
. Ty-pe II (H|pomqturation)
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Intrnal resorption is an unusual form oftooth resorption that begins centally within the
tooth. Resorption ofthc dentin ofthe pulpal walls may be seen as part ofan inflarnmatory
response to pulpal injury, or it may be seen in cases in which no apparent trigger can be
idcntificd. Most cases of intemal resorption present no early clinical symptoms. The first ev-
idence of th lesion may bc thc appcarancc ofa pink-hued area on the crown of thc tooth,
which reprcsents the hyperplastic, vascular pulp tissuc filling thc rcsorbed areas. Ifthe con-
dition is discovered before perforation ofthe crown or root has occured, endodontic ther-
apy may be canied out with thc cxpectation ofa pretty high success rate.
Idiopathic external resorptive lsions arc charactcrized by thc invasion ofthe ccrvical rc-
gion ofthe root by fibrovascular tissue which progressively resorbs dentin, enamcl and ce-
mentum. Thc sourcc of the resorption is in thc attachmcnt apparatus. This is the key to
understanding diagnosis and treatment. The dental pulp remains protected by an intact layer
of dentin and predentin until late in the process. Since the source of the lesion is not in the
pulp, endodontic treatment by itselfis ofno assistance in dealing with the sourcc ofthe prob-
lcm.
Crown size varies from Varies fiom thin and smooth to Enamel has normal to
small to normal. small teelh normal rhickness with grooves, slightiy reduced contrast
nay Iack proximal con- firrrows andlor pits
lacts, color varies from nor-
mal to opaque white-ycllow
Varies flom creamy opaque Normal thickness with enamel Enamel has contrast
to marked yello\r',/brown. that ofien chips and ab8des similar to or less than
surfacc ofteeth sofl and easily clcntrn. uncrupted crowns
rough. dental sensitivity have normal morphologv
and open bite are common
Opaque nhite to yellow- Normal thickness with enamel Enamel has contrast
brow_n. soft rough enamel that ofien chips and abiades similar to or less than
surface. dental sensiti.i,ity easily dentln, unerupted crowns
and open bite are common. have normal morphology
hea\,1 calculus formation is
. Somewhat smaller
. Extremely large
. Completely obliterated
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. Platelets
. Plasma cells
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Dentin dysplasia is another autosomal dominant trait that affects dentin. AII teeth ofboth
dentitions are affected. This condition has not been associated with any systemic con-
nective tissue disorder. This is a rare condition that has been subdivided into type I or
radicular type and a more rare type II or coronal type:
. Type | (radicular cl.,-.splasia): more common type
. Both dentitions are normal in color and shape
. The teeth are generally mobile, frequently abscess and can be lost prematurely
. Teeth show greater resistance to caries than do normal teeth
Radiographic features:
. Extremely short roots
. Obliterated pulp chambers and root canals before eruption
. Residual fragments of pulp tissue appear typically as horizontal lucencies
( cnevrons)
. Periapical radiolucencies (granulomo,s or c.vst-r') around the defective roots
Leukemia is a lomr ofcancer that begins jn the blood-forming cells ofthe bone marrow (the soft,
innet part o.l'1he botret. Undcr nomal circumstances, the blood-fonning, or hematopoictic, cclls
of thc bone marrow make leukocytes to defend thc body against infectioLls organlsms such as
r inrses and bacteria. But il'sot'ne leukocytes are damaged and remain in an inmlature fbrm' they
becornc poor int'ection fighters that multiply excessivcly and do not dic olfas thcy should.
The leukcmic cells accumulate and lesscn the production of oxygcn-carrying red blood cclls /ery-
rlr r or r les/. blood-clo tting cells (plaletets), and normal lcukocytes. If untrcated, the surplus leukemic
cells or er$helm the bone marrow, enter the bloodstream. and eventually invadc other parts ofthe
btrdr. such as the lymph nodes, spleen, livcr, and central nervous syslern (brcin, "^Pfualcoldr' In this
* ar. the bchar ior of leukcmia is different than that of other canccrs, which usually bcgin in major
organs and ultimatcl), spread to thc bone marrow.
Thcrc are more than a dozen varictics ofleukenia, but thc follorving four types arc thc most com-
nlon:
L -\cute lymphocytic lcnkcrlta (ALL). most common type in children
1. .\cute myelogenous le]rlemia (AML.): most malignant type
j. Chronic lymphocytic lcukernia fczlr: least malignant type
-1. Chronic myclogenous leukcmia (CML)t 2 distinct phases, invariably latal
lmportant:
. Leukemia is classified by thc dominant cell type and by the duration from onset to death
. Leukemia can modify thc inflammalory reaction
. Leukemia's affect on teeth/gingiva: Duc to a decrease in immune responsc, periodontal prob-
lenrs can be aggravated. Gingival enlargement can be a finding rvith leukemia Additionally,
deficits with platelets can bc scen intraorally with increased hemorrhaging,/bruising."
BId Dis
A 48 year old female patient walks into your office. She states that she is
diagnosed with some disease which she can't remember the name of. Her
physician wants her to follow up with you, her dentist, regularly to watch
out for cancer of the tongue and throat. She also has a bald tongue, and
states that her fingernails "look funny." What disease does she have?
. Aplastic anemia
. Plummer-Vinson syndrome
. Pernicious anemia
. Cushing's syndrome
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. Cystic fibrosis
. Muscular dystrophy
. Polio
. Sickle-cell anemia
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Plummer-Vinson syndrome characterized by an iron-deficiency anemia, atrophic
changes in the buccal, glossopharyngeal, and esophageal mucous metnbranes, koilonycha
(spoon-shaped./inger rail.s), and dysphagia. The dysphagia is due to an esophageal stric-
ture or web. SCC of the tongue and throat are complications. lt is most common in mid-
dle aged women, rarely in the male. The etiology unknown. Because ofthe predisposition
to the development ofcarcinoma ofthe oral mucous membranes, it is essential that the di-
agnosis be established early so that treatment can be given ASAP This includes admin-
istration of iron, vitamin B complex and a high protein diet.
Aplastic anemia is a form of anemia in which the capacity of the bone marrow to gen-
erate red blood cells is defective. Two types:
l. Primary: unknown cause, affects young adults. The signs and symptoms include
pallor, weakness, malaise, dyspnea (dilfcul4, breathing), headache and vertigo. Oral
symptoms include spontaneous bleeding,bnstsing (petechlaeT and gingival infections.
It is usually fatal.
2. Secondary: caused by exposure to toxic agents, such as radiation, chemicals or
drugs (fbr exanple, chloramphenicol). It can occur at any age. Symptoms are the same
as primary. Prognosis is good once you remove the cause.
*** Aplastic anemia is the most serious and life-threatening blood dyscrasia associated
s ith drus toxiciw.
Sickle-cell anemia is an inherited disease in which the red blood cells, normally disc-
shaped, become crescent shaped, As a result, they function abnomally and cause small
blood clots. These clots give rise to recurrent painful episodes called "sickle cell pain
crises." Sickle-cell anemia (also called sickle-cell disease) is the result ofthe production
ofabnormal hemoglobin (Hemoglobin S/ due to a genetic defect. It is carried as a trait
by 10% of African Americans and 0.2olo have sickle-cell anemia. lt is more common in fe-
males and usually clinically manifests itselfbefore the age of30. The typical signs ofane-
mia are present. The patient is weak, short ofbreath and easily fatigued. Muscle and joint
patns are common.
Denlal radiographs ar oftn of diagnostic value: marrow spaces are markedly en-
larged because ofthe loss ofmany trabeculae; the trabeculae, which are present, are often
abnormally prominent. Occasionally, osteosclerotic areas are noted in the midst of large
radiolucent marow spaces. However, the lamina dura and the teeth are unaffected.
See picture #18 in booklet
\ote: The gene defect is a known mutation ofa single nucleotlde (th),minelbr an adenine)
ofthe beta-globin gene, which results in glutamic acid to be substituted by valine. Sickle-
cell anemia occurs when a person inherits two abnormal ger'es (one front each parent). lf
a person inherits one abnormal gene for the disease, they have what is called sickle cell
trait. The life span ofred blood cells is reduced from 120 to 20 days.
ORAL PATHOLOGY Bld Dis
. Petechiae
. Ecchymosis
. Varicose veins
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. The clinical picture of acute leukemias are marked by the effects ol anemia, which is
usually severe (/ittigue, molaise), an absence of functioning granulocles (proneness
to inlbction and inflammation), and thrombocytopenia (hemorrlrugic diathesis)
. The spleen and liver usually are moderately enlarged, while enlarged lymph nodes
are seen mainly in acute lymphocytic leukemia. Fever and a very high ESR are
found
Important: Tooth extractions are contraindicated due to the tendency for excessive
bleedin s.
*** This is false; acute leukemias have a rapid onst and progression.
. ln 7-i9i ofthe cases olacute lymphocytic leukemia, the lymphocytes are neither B nor
T-cells and are called "null cells. "
. L ntreated patients die within six months; with intensive therapy (chemotherap,-,
rutliation, and bone marrow transplanls) remissions lasting up to five years may be
obtained; death is usually due to a hemorrhage (broin) or a superimposed bacterial
infection.
. Thromboc)'topenic purpura
. Agranuloc).tosis
. Sickle-cell anemia
. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
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The term used to describe a leukemia where leukmic cells rppear in the blood
but there is no significant lncrease in the number of white blood cells is callod: .,
. Aleukemic leukemia
. Subleukemic leukemia
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Agranulocytosis is an abnormal condition of the blood, characterized by a severe
reduction in the number ofgranulocytes (particL arly neutroprilr./. Note: It may also
be caused by the antithyroid drugs fi.e., propylthiouracil, methimazole, qnd carbima-
zole).
Clinical features:
. Sudden onset of high feveq chills, jaundice, weakness and sore throat
. Oral infection with rapid periodontal destruction
. Oral ulcers and gingival bleeding
The most characteristic feature of this condition is the presence of infection, particu-
larly in the oral cavity. The signs and symptoms develop very rapidly, usually within a
fev days. and death may occur soon afterward.
The oral lesions are an important phase ofthe clinical aspects ofagranulocytosis. They ap-
pear as necrotizing ulcerations of the oral mucosa, particularly the gingiva and palate.
These lesions appear as ragged necrotic ulcers covered by a gray membrane. One impor-
ranr aspect is that there is littl or no apparent inflammatory cell infiltration around the
lesions. Histologically, this is pathognomonic of agranulocytosis.
. Stem cell leukemia is a form of leukemia that is characterized by abnormal cells that
are poorly differentiated but are considered to be precursors of lymphoblasts, myelo-
blasts. or monoblasts. Note: these cells are too immature to classify.
. Glossitis
. Severe gingivitis
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In your ofllce, you see a 6 month old child whose lirst teeth are eruptlng and
whose mother iJ concrned about the color. The mandibular incboB do show
a brownlsh-blue hue, You are golng to ask the mother about which
of the following conditions during her pregnancy:
. Sickle-cell anemia
. Erythroblastosis fetalis
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Pernicious anemia is a relatively common, chronic, progressive, megaloblastic anemia.
It is caused by the lack of secretion of the intrinsic factor in normal gastric juice. This
lactor is necessary lor adequate absorption of vitamin 81.,, which is necessary for the
maturation of erythrocytes. As a result, they produce fewer erythrocytes than normal.
The onset of pemicious anemia usually is insidious and vague. As the condition pro-
gresses, there will be a sore, painful ton g.ue (atrophic glossilr.r/, angular cheilitis, a tingling
numbness of the extremities. difficulty swallowing (d,,-sphagia), painful swallowing
(od,vnophagia). See picture #20 in booklet
A Schilling 24-hour urine test is done to evaluate whether vitamin B 1.' is being absorbed
by the body and is most commonly used to evaluate patients for pemicious anemia.
Remember: Thalassemia major and minor are hernolytic anmias that result from a ge-
netic defect. Both are characterized bv a low level of ervthrocvtes and abnomal hemo-
globin.
The fetus'blood is Rh-positive because the father passed along an Rh-positive trait. rvhich
is a dominant trait. The mother responds to the incompatible blood by producing antibod-
ies against it. Thesc antibodies cross thc placenta into the fetus'circulation. whcrc thcy af
tach to and destroy thc fctus' red blood cells, leading to anenria this is called
er.r throblastosis fetalis.
-
\ote: It can also rcsult from blood typc incompatibilities. For cxample, the mothcr may
har e ty'pc O blood and thc fetus has type A or B blood.
The most common form oferythroblastosis fctalis is called is ABO incompatibility, which
can ran in its severity. The less common form is called Rh incompatibility, which more
ottcn causes a very scvere anemia in the baby. The severity olthis condition can vary widcly.
In some instanccs, the baby has no symptoms of the disease. In othcr cases, it can lcad to
death of thc baby beforc or shortly after birth. lt can be treatcd in utero by intrauterine trans-
t usion.
\\'hcn thc child is bom, signs may include an enlarged liver or spleen, generalizcd cdcma,
laundice. and anemia. After birth, depending on the severity, a transfusion usually nccds to
be performed. The most severc form of this disease, Rh incompatibility, can bc prcvcntcd
if thc mothcr takes a medicinc called Rhogam at certain times during and aftcr prcgnancy.
They have a shorter, more devastating clinical course than the acute leukemias
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. Acute monoblastic
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Important: Chronic leukemias have a slower onset and progression. They also have a
longer, less devastating clinical course than the acute leukemias, and they constitute
about 507o of all leukemias.
The peak age for ALL is around four years old, and it is the form of actte leukemia that
is the most responsive to therapy. Cunent therapies for ALL include chemotherapy with
lbllo\1.up radiation, and possible bone-marrow transplant after particularly high dose
chemotherapy treatment or in cases ofrecurrence or ilnon-responsive to other treatments.
*** Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) arc the
most common types in adults. See picture #22 in booklet
Allhough the exact cause ofmost leukemias remains unklown, increasing evidence sug-
gests a combination ofcontributing factors. These factors include: familial tendency, con-
genital disorders (Dov,n syndrome, or the presence of Philadelphia chromosome
chronic myeloid leukemia), viruses (e.g., HTLVI, herpes-like viral particle,s lnve been -
c ulared.fion potients ancl leukemic patients have high ontibod), titer to the Epstein-Barr
lirr-st. ionizing radiation and the exposure to the chemical benzene and cytotoxins such
as alk) lating agents.
Important: Oral lesions are most likely to be observed in myelogenous leukemia. These
oral lesions may be the initial manifestation ofthe disease. The oral lesions include gin-
givitis, gingival hemorrhage, generalized gingival hyperplasia, petechiae, ecchymoses.
and ulcerations. See picture #21 in booklet
Bld Dis
You have a new patient in your dental oflice who has just moved
from Denver. He srys his doctor told him that he has some disease
caused by living at a high altitude. When conducting an intraoral xam,
you lind that his tongue is a deep purple and his gingiva bleed easily.
What disease is a likely cause ofthese findings?
. Polycythemia Vera
. Hemophilia B
. Thallesemia Major
. Porphyria
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Polycythemia is the condition oftoo many red blood cells in the circulation. The blood
can be too thick to pass easily through the small blood vessels ofthe body. This in tum
leads to clot formation and blockage ofthe small vessels which can lead to a stroke
\ote: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) rs a malignant disease of the bone marrow in
s hich hematopoietic precursors are arrested in an early stage of development. AML is
distinguished ftom other related blood disorders by the presence of greater than 30%
blasts in the blood and/or bone rnarrow. These blasts /m|eloblasts) contain Luer rods in
therr cvtoDlasm.
Which of the following is { troublesome librobLstic
neoplssm that is locally sggrer$ive rnd infiltrrtive?
. Peripheral fibroma
. Traumatic neuroma
. Nodular fasciitis
. Fibromatosis
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\
While in the OR on a general surgery rotation, a 3 month old is brought in with
alarge (20cm) flaid-lilled mass on her neck. The diagnosis is r cystic hygroma
(hygroma coli).This lesion is under whlch umbrella oflesions, which also
' contdns enlarged tissue on the postcrior rnd latral border of the tongoe?
. Angiomas
. Lymphangiomas
. Schwanaomas
. Fibrosarcomas
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Tumor Etiolog) Clinical Charictenstics Trcatmenl and Prognosis
Most common sit ovI mentll [xcision wjth snall proximal
foramen m edentulous moufts; podion ofinvohed neNei
nodule or swelling, wbich may
be painful to digilal pressure
\ traumatic ncuroma is a lesion causcd by lrauma to the periphcral ncnc. In thc oral catity, thc injury rnay be nr
rhr rirmr olrrauma fiom u surgical procedure such as a toolh cxlraclion, from a local ancslhctic injcclion or fionl an
.r..ideni. It is usually a vcry small nodulc 1/.\'r /,{utt 0.5 .r in didnrcter).In thc oral cavity it is most commonly sccn
.! rIc mentat foramen. Il is firm, movable ard wcll cncapsulatcd. ll is painfut when pslpaled. Prcssurc applicd to
rhr naurona clicits a resporsc oftcn dcscribcd as an "electric shock".
Hi!tologic features:
. \bundant ncnc lissuc a'rd collagcnous fibrous tissuc in haphazard arangcnrcri
. Chronic lillammalory ccll infilirate may be prcscnt
. Sch\ ann cclls rri1l bc prcscnt
Ly mphangiomas are benign bamartomas of lymphatic channels that develop early in life
$ ith no sex predilection. They may occur on the skin or mucous membrane. ln addition to
the tongue, they occur commonly on the lips and labial mucosa.
Clinical features:
. Raised, diffuse. bubbly nodules or vesicles
. Range in color from clear to pink. dark red, brown or black
' .As)'mptomatic
. Soft. fhrctuant
. \ aries in size
. Usuall.v painless
Histologic features: four types of lymphangiomas:
. Ll mphangioma simplex (capillory lymphangiono) - composed of small, thin-walled
lvmphatics
. Calernous lymphangioma - comprised ofdilated lymphatic vessels with surround-
ing adventitia
. cl stic lymphangiom? (cyslic hlgroma or hygroma col,
- consisting ofhuge, macro-
scopic lymphatic spaces with surounding fibrovascular tissues and smooth muscle
.Benign lymphangioendothelioma facquired progressive lltnphangiont) lymphatic
channels appear to be dissecting through dense collagenous bundles
. Pyogenic granuloma
. Epulis granulomatosum
. Peripheral fibroma
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. Pituitary hyperplasia
. Sipple's syndrome
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slate during pregnancy
l0 days of
Remember:
L Thc peripheral fibroma is a rcactive hyperplaslic mass that occurs in the Singiva and may be dc-
rivcd from connective tissue ofthc submucosa or the PDL. It presents as well-demarcatcd lbcal mass
\\ ith eithcr a sessile or pedunculated base. Ii is similar in qolor to the suffounding connective tissue.
It may be ulccratcd. The treatment for a pcriphcral fibroma is local excision. Recurrence is rare'
\ote: Other variant forms ofthe peripheral fibroma includc:
. The peripheral odontogenic fibroma: which is gingival mass composed ofa well-vascularized,
flbrous connective tissuc. Thc distinguishing featlre ofthis variant is thc presencc ofstrands ofon-
dorogenic epithelium, oftcn abundant, throughout the connective tissue. It is usrlally non-ulcerated.
. Thc peripher.l ossifying fibroma: is a gingival mass in which calcified islands. presumed to be
bonc. are seen. The bone is found qithin a non-encapsulated prolifcration of plump benign fibrob-
lasts. The surface is often ulccrated. See picture #85 in booklet
:. Focal fibrous hyperplasia is hlperplasia oforal mucosa. It is also callcd traumatic fibroma, irri-
larion fibroma. and hyperplastic scar. It is a rcactivc lcsion caused osually by chronic trauma to oral
mucous membranes. The giant cell libroma is a focal fibrous hlT'erplasia in which connective tissue
cells. many ofwhich are multinucleated, assume a stcllatc shapc.
The multipfe endocrin neoplasia syndromes (olso called MEN Syndrome./ have been
classified into three distinct syndromes, each is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait:
. \ten I: consists of tumors or hyperplasia of the pituitary parathyroids, adrenal
cortex, and ofthe pancreatic islets.
. \len Il (also c'alled Sipple's Syndrome ard sabn?e lr:
is characterized by parathy-
roid hyperplasia or adenoma, but no tumors to the pancreas. However, in addition, these
patients have pheochromocltomas ofthe adrenal medulla and medullary carcinoma of
the thyroid gland.
. \Ien III (elso kno$n os sub\tpe IIB): rs characterrzed by mucocutaneous neuro-
mas, pheochron'rocytomas ofthe adrenal medulla and medullary carcinoma ofthe thy-
roid gland.
Important: MEN I and II are related to MEN lll in that patients with types I and II syn-
dromes have neoplasms ofvarious endocrine organs, but do not have the oral manifesta-
rions ofmucosal neuromas. These oral lesions are most common on the lips, tongue, and
buccal mucosa.
\ote: The most important aspect of this syndrome is the medullary carcinoma of the
thvroid because of its ability to metastasize and cause death. Therefore, the detection
of the rnucosal neuromas may alert the clinician for early diagnosis and treatment.
. Traumatic neuroma
. Neurofibroma
. Nodular fasciitis
. Fibromatosis
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. Neurolemoma
. Neurofibroma
. Neuroma
. Fibroma
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Neurofibromas may appear as solitary Iesions or as muitiple lesions as part ofthc syndrome neurofi-
bromatosis 6,()// ne. klinghdusen:\ disease of skin). lr rs a benign ncoplasm, howcver the etiology of
solitary neurofibromas is unknown. Most researchers believe the cell oforigin is the Schu'ann cell; oth-
ers believe dre pe neLlral fibroblasr is rcsponsiblc- For the solitary neurofibroma thc tongue. buccal mu-
cosa, and vestibule are the oral regions most commonly affected.
\odular fasciilis Reacti!e lesion; P.esents as firm mass; exhibits Surgical excision; recurrence
lpserdosarconatous proliteration of r8pid growth; pain and
fibroblasts lendemess common
\ote: The presence ofsix or more caf6 au lait macules greater than 1.5 cm in diameter
is generally regarded as being indicative of this disease until proven otherwise
Radiographic features:
. \\ ell-demarcated unilocular or multilocular radiolucency
. Possible root disturbance
. Possible jarv enlargement
Treatment:
. Surgical excision but may be impractical due to the number of lesions
. Best 1eft untreated because multiple recuffences may be associated with malignant
transformation to neurogenic sarcoma
\ote: The importance of the lesions is the high risk (5%' to l5%o.1 of mtlignanl trans-
formation
Remember: The single neurofibroma presents at any age, it comnronly appears as a ses-
sile, firm, pink nodule that commonly occurs on the tongue, buccal mucosa and
lestibule. It is rerloved by surgical excision and rarely recur.
Con Tis Les
A 5S-year-old patient coms into your oflice for routine dental work.
You se that he has a tooth fracture (due to decay) of tooth #31,
A smooth, firm, asymptomatic lesion is noted on the lateral
border ofthe tongue adjacent to the sharp enarnel oftooth #31.
The patient states that the lesion has been there for years and is
annoying because sometimes he will bite it accidenta[y.
Name this most frequently encountered intraoral benign
neoplasm of connctive tissue origin,
. A leiomyosarcoma
. A traumatic fibroma
. A leiomyorna
. A rhabdomyoma
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*"* Otlrcr lcvels of nracromolecules found in the conncctivc tissue fe.g., glytosantinoglycans,
:a,1u'(tn. lihronecti ) are also incrcascd.
scleroderma is an uncommon. autoimmune disease. It all'ects the connective tissues $hich sur-
:rrund thcjoinls, blood vcsscls and intcmal organs bcneath the af}'ected area ofskin. Womcn arc af-
i.tcd thrcc to ibur tinres morc oftcn than men. The diseasc usually starts between thc ages of25
llnJ :0 It onl-'- oqcasionally bcgins in children or in the clderly. Although there is no curc. propcr
lrearnlent and care can makc it possible for people rvith sclerodenna to lead full, productive livcs.
\ote: \1a) occur concomitantly with other autoimmune diseases. Such as lupus erythemalosus,
rheunaroid arthritis. dermatomyositis, and Sjogren's sundrome. \ote: Thesc changcs in thc con-
n.-iti\c trssue all'ect the fingers, trunk, face (producing u "purse-string" moil/i], and the nlore
rr(]\]]'nal parts of the cxtrenlitieS.
Oral radiographs ol'a patient with scleroderma would show an abnormal rvidening of the peri-
..Jrrnral ligament. This space is created by a thickening ofthe periodontal-membranc as a rcsult of
:n increase in size and number ofcollagen fibers. The enlarged space is almost uniform io width,
.rlrounds the cntirc root of the toolh and makes the tooth appear as if it is being cxlrudcd rapidly
:ilrir its socket. See picture #31 in booklet Note: Other oral radiographic l'eatures may include
]rlar.ral resorption ofthe angle ofthe ramus ofthe mandible or complete resorption 01-thc condylcs
:nd or coronoid process ofthe mandible. Remember: The abnormal widening ofthc periodontal-
:rembrane spacc is also a radiographic finding in osteosarcomas.
Thcrc arc tlvo major types ofscleroderma:
I Localized scleroderma; In this condition changes only occur in isolatcd areas of the skin
and the tissues beneath it. [t is rclativcly mild and docs not aft'cct intemal organs. Cutaneous
changes includc induration and rigidity. atrophy, and telangiectasias.
L Systemic scleroderma: With this condition changes rnay occur in thc skin and also in a num-
ber of intemal organs. These might include blood vessels, joints, the digcstivc syst"em (esopha-
gus, stomach and borlel/, and occasionally the lungs, hean, kidneys and muscles. Changes in the
connective tissue may affect the function ofany ofthese organs.
ORALPATHOLOGY Con Tis Les
A newborn baby girl was delivered via caesarian section due airway patency
concerns. During ultrasound, there was th discovery of a tumor ofthe
oral cavity. Upon delivery, the pink, comprssible tumor of the anterior
maxilla was deemed to be a congenital epulis ofthe newborn. This lesion
is composed ofcells that are identical to those ofthe:
. A traumatlc neuroma
. A schwannoma
. A lipoma
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An emergency patient walks into your o{fice with swelling ofthe left
submandibular space. He says his lower left molar recently 'broke down"
and has been very painful especially when something cold hits it or whcn
he chews down on it. What is the most likely etiology of this swelling.
. Orthodontics
. Trauma
. Periodontal disease
The granular cell myoblastoma is a rare neoplasm of unknown etiology. Most re-
searchers believe its origin is from the Schrvrum cell. It presents as an uninflamed. asymp-
tomatic mass less than 2 cm in diameter. The most common location in the head and neck
region is the tongue. It may affect any age group and females seem to be affected more
than men. See picture #25 in booklet
Important: Both of these lesions are identical histologically. They both contain granu-
lar cells, however, the congenital epulis of the newborn does not exhibit overlaying
pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia. The pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia of the
or erlying epithelium is frequently seen in the granular cell myoblastoma.
*** This infection follows the carious involvement ofthe tooth. The cellular debris and/or
rnfection rvhich caused the tooth pulp to die, slowly filters out of the tip of the root and
produces an inflanmatory reaction around the root tip
\ote: ,\ periapical abscess can also occur after traumatic injury to a tooth, which results
in necroiis of the pulp, and in cases ol irritation of the periapical tissues, either by me-
chanical manipulation or by the application of chemicals in endodontic procedures'
Clinical features:
. If acute, presents as an abscess: See picture #26 in booklet
Tooth is extremely painful to percussion
- May feel slightly extruded from its socket
- Tooth will exhibit mobilitY
. If chronic, presents as a granuloma or cyst. There are usually no clinical features of
svmptoms
Radiographic features:
. If acut, only a slight thickening ofthe periodontal membrane is noticeable
.If chronic (granuloma or q,st), there will usually be a radiolucent area at the apex of
the involved tooth. See picture #27 in booklet
Treatment: Establish drainage either by opening the pulp chamber or extracting the
tooth.
Note: If a periapical abscess is not treated, it can lead to serious complications such as
osteomvelitis. cellulitis and bacteremia.
A [ealthy patient comes into your ollice for an inltial exam. On the full mouth
series of radiographs you see a radiopaque lesion perlaplcal to tooth #19. Tooth
#19 has a deep amalgam restoration with rcurretrt decay underneath. You csn
Nee the entire outline ofthe mesial root oftooth #19 - the lesion seems to stem
frorn the tooth. What is the most llkely diagnosis of the lesion?
N.
. Cementoblastoma
. Cementoma
. Fibrocementoma
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Focal sclerosing osteomyelitis is a relatively common phenomenon that is believed to repre-
sent a focal bony reaction to a low-gnde inflammatory stimulus. [t is usually seen at the apex
of a tooth in rvhich there has been a long standing pulpitis. Note: Synonyms for focal scle-
rosing osteomyelitis include bony scar, condensing osteitis, and sclerotic bone. The term focal
periapical osteopetrosis has also been used to descdbe the lesions associated with normal
caries-free teeth.
Focal sclerosing osteomyelitis may be found at any age but is typically discovered in young
adults. Patients are usually asymptomatic, and most lesions are discovered on routine radi-
ographic examination. A majority are found at the apices ofmandibular first molars. The pe-
riapical x-ray demonstrates the pathognomonic, well-circumscribed radiopaque mass of
sclerotic bone surrounding and extending below the apex ofone or both roots. The entire root
outline is almost always visible, an important litature in distinguishing it from the benign ce-
mentoblastoma, which radiographically, it may resemble. The tooth with this lesion may be
treated or exftacted, since the pulp is infected and the infection has spread past the immediate
penapical area. The sclerosing bone constituting the osteomyelitis is not attached to the tooth.
and remains after the tooth is treated or removed.
DifTuse sclerosing osteomyelitis represents an inflammatory reaction in the mandible or max-
illa. believed to be in response to a microorganism oflow virulence. lmportant in the etiology
and progression ofdiffuse sclerosing osteomyelitis is chronic periodontal disease, which ap-
pears to provide a portal ofentry lorbacte a. The condition tends to occur most ftequently in
middle-aged black females. The disease is typified by a protracted chronic course with acute
exacerbations of pain, swelling, and occasional drainage. Radiographically, this process is
dld'ure. 9*pically affecting a large part ofthejaw The lesion is ill-defined. Treatment consists
t idetermining and addressing the cause. Antibiotics are the mainstay of trcatment. Low-dose
.onicosteroids have also been used with some success. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy may prove
:.r be a r aluable adjunct.
Acutc inflammation ofthc bonc and bone manou'ofthe mandible and maxilla rcsults most fiequently
from rtension of a periapical abscess. The second most common cause of acute osteomyelitis is
phlsical injury as secn u,ith fractlte or surgery. Most cases of acute osteomyelitis arc infcctious.
Staphr-lococci and streptococci are the most frequcntly cited.
Pain is the primary feature of this inflammatory process. Fever, painful lymphadenopathy, leukocyto-
sis. and other signs and symptoms ofacutc infcction arc also commonly found. Paresthesia ofthe lotler
lip is occasionally seen with mandibular involvcmcnt. Important: Unless the inflammatow process has
bccn prcscnt for more than I wcck, radiographic cvidcnce ofacutc ostcomyelitis is usualll_ not present.
\\'ith timc. diffuse radiolucent changes bcgin to appcar. Treatment includes antibiotics and drainage.
Chronic osteomyelitis (chronic osteitis) fiay bc one ofthc scquclac ofacule osteomychlis /ei er ult-
I eatetl o, in.tdequateb lrealed), or rt may represent a long-tenr, lorv-grade inflammatory reaction that
nevcr $ ent rhrough a significant or clinically noticeable acute phase. Most investigators believe that
bacleria /e.g., staph ococci, \treptococci, bacleroiles. acli on\rer'/ are responsible for thc vast major-
iI ol chronic osteornyelitis cases. The mandible, especially the molar area, is much more lrequently
atl'ected rhan js thc rnaxilla. Pain is usually present, s\relling ofthe jaw is a comrnonly encountered sign;
loose teth and sinus tracts are less frequently seen. Anesthesia is very uncommon. Radiographically,
chronic osteomyclitis appears primarily as a radiolucent lesion that may show focal zones ofopacifica-
rion. The luccnt pattem is often described as "moth-eaten" because ofits mottled radiographic appear-
ance. Treatment includes antibiotics and scqucstrectomy.
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Cleft palate occurs in the eighth to tenth week of embryonic life. Isolated clefts olthe
palate are more common in females. It is characterized by a fissure in the midline ofthe
palate, resulting from the failure ofthe two sides to fuse during embryonic development.
The most severe handicap imposed by cleft palate is an impaired mechanism preventing
normal speech and swallowing. Note: It effects approximately I in 2000 births.
Cleft lip results when the medial nasal procss fails to fuse with the lateral portions of
the maxillary process olthe first branchial arch. Fusion normally occurs during the sixth
and sevnth weeks of embryonic development. The maxillary lip is most commonly af-
fected. It may be bilateral (20a/o) or lunilateral (80%). Clefts ofthe lip are more frequent
in males. Lip clefi involvement is more frequent on the left sid than the right.
Note: It effects approximately I in 1000 births, but varies with race.
L Speech problems associated with both ofthe above are usually the result of
\ot< the inability ofthe soft palate to close airflow into the nasal area.
2. It is not unusual for teeth especially the lateral incisor to be missing in the
cleft area.
3. More than 250 syndromes have been identified that may be associated with
cleft lip and palate, or cleft palate alone.
4. Lip pits are rare anomalies that can occur in the upper lip, lower lip, or the
oral commissure. Although lip pits may be seen near the oral commrssure or
midline upper lip, most occur on the Iower lip and are associated with van der
\lbude syndrome. This syndrome is an autosomal dominant condition with
80% to 90% penetrance consisting of lower lip pits and cleft lip and/or cleft
Dalate.
.\chondroplasia is the most common type of dwarfism. The upper an.ns and thighs are
more shortened than the forearms and lower legs. Generally, the head is large, the fore-
head is prorrinent, the nose has a saddle-like appearance and the mandible exhibits prog-
n al h ism.
\ote: The teeth are of nomal size but there is limited space within the maxillary and
mandibular arches for them to erupt into which causes overcrowding and subsequent mal-
o!'cluS ron.
.oI
. Marfar's syndrome
. Ehlers Danlos
. Cystic Fibrosis
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. Acid phosphatase
. Vitamin K
. Alkaline phosphatase
. Phosphorus
41
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The characteristic features olosteogenesis imperfecta (OI) vary greatly from person to
person and not all characteristics are evident in each case. The chief clinical character-
istic ofosteogenesis imperfecta is the extreme fragility and porosity ofthe bones, with a
proneness to fracture. Other features include: pale blue sclera, deafness due to otoscle-
rosis, abnormal teeth, loosejoints and low muscle tone. a triangular face, and a tendency
toward spinal curyature.
Clinically the teeth have:
. Crowns that are bulbous: with a cervical constriction
. Pulps that are obliterated, either partially or completely
. Roots that are narrower and shorter
*** The deciduous teeth are more sverlv affected that the permanent dentition
\ote: The cause of osteogenesis imperfecta is believed to be due to a genetic defect that
causes imperfectly-formed, or an inadequate amount ofcollagen. The affected person has
either less collagen than normal, or a poorer quality of collagen than normal, leading to
\r eak bones that fracture easilY.
Hr pophosphatasia is an inherited metabolic (chemical) bone disease that results from low
lerels ofan enzyme called alkaline phosphatase. This enzyme is essential to the calcifica-
tion ofbone tissue. The severity of hypophosphatasia is remarkably variable from patient to
patient. Some patients have blue sclera that resembles ostognsis imperfecta. There may
be delbrmity ofthe arms, legs and chest. Frequent bouts ofpneumonia can occur as well as
rccurrent tiactures.
J h pes of h) pophosphatasia:
. \eonatal: severe manifestations, respiratory failure, marked hypocalcification of the
skeletal structures
. Infantile: h-vpercalcemia, premature loss of deciduous teeth, skeletal malformations,
failure to grorv
. Childhood: short stature. frontal bossing, usually normal calcium and phosphate levels
. Odontoh! pophosphatasia: children and adults rvho have only dental problems
Important: The premature loss of teeth in children and adults is usually characteristic.
These teeth also exhibit hypocalcification. Radiographically, the teeth display enlarged
pulp chambers and pulp canals, deficient root development as well as alveolar bone loss.
Rememtrer: Patient's with Paget's disease also have high levels of serum alkaline phos-
phatase.
. Gigantism
. Acromegaly
. Achondroplasia
. Dwarfism
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A new 6 year old pediatric patient walks into your operatory with hls mother,
You initirl physical assessment nots ! prominent foreh""d ;;;;;;;;;.
""drerlize thst the
The prtietrt initirlly seems to have no eyebrows but you lrter
hair is just very fine and sptrse. When you shake her hand and she smiles,
you llso notice that she is n.lssing teeth and the ones she has are cone
shaped. Whst fu her most likely systemic condition?
. Ectodermal dysplasia
. Cleidocranial dysplasia
. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
. Osteopetrosis
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In over 90% of acromegaly patients, the overproduction ol GH is caused by a benign
tumor of the pituitary gland, called an adenoma. Whether or not the epiphyses of the
long bones have lused with the shaft is the main detenninant of whether gigantism or
acromegaly will occur when there is oversecretion of growth hormone by the pituitary
gland.
Remember:
. Gigantism: tumor prior to adolescence (non-fusion o.f epip\,ses)
. Acromegaly: tumor after adolescence (fusion of epiphyes)
An old patient presents to your oflice with ill-fitting dentures. Radiographs re-
veal hypercementosis on roots and the patient is speaking embarrassingly loudly
to you that she is more conscious ofhis baldness now that his hat doesn't fit
anymore." These signs all point to what possible diagnosis?
. Paget's disease
. Osteosarcoma
. Fibrous dysplasia
. Albers-Schoenberg
You are consulting on a pathological case for a fellow dentist. The biopsy of
the lesion sho\fls multinucleated giant cells and perivascular collagen cuffing.
After asking about the clinical signs, your colleague mentions that the young
patient seems always to be (staring offinto spac. and that she has.puffy
cheeks." The most likely diagnosis of this case is:
. Tumor of hyperparathyroidism
. Cherubism
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*** Paqet's tlisease ofbone is also called Osteitis Deformans' See picture #32 in
booklet
Cherubism is a benign, autosomal dominant condition ofthe maxilla and mandible, usu-
all-,- found in children by 5 years ofage (it olfects males 2:i). The vast majority ofcases
occur in the mandible. The bony expansion is most frequently bilateral, although unilar
eral involvement has been reported. The clinical appearance may vary from a barely dis-
cemible posterior swelling ofa singlejaw to marked anterior and posterior expansion of
both jau s. resulting in masticatory, speech, and swallowing difficulties. Intraoralh', a
hard. non-tender swelling can be palpated in the affected area. There are no associated
sl sterric manifestations. The deciduous dentition may be spontaneously shed prematurely,
beginning as early as three years of age. There is often delayed eruption of the penna-
nenr dentition uhich is olten defective with the absence ofnumerous teeth and displace-
mcnt of those present.
Histologicalll, the lesions bear a close resemblance to those seen in central giant cell
granulomas. There are nlrmerous fibroblasts and rnultinucleated giant cells with promi-
nent nuclei. A distinctive feature is eosinophilic perivascular cufling of collagen sur-
rounding small capillaries throughout the lesion. Although this is not always present,
perirascular collagen cuffing is regarded as pathognomonic for cherubism.
. Vitamin C
. Vitamin D
. Vitamin K
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. Graves'disease
. Hashimoto's disease
. Addison's disease
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Hypoparathyroidism is a rare disorder associated with insufficient production ofparathy-
roid hormone, the inability to make a usable form ofparathy'roid hormone, or the inabil-
ity ofkidneys and bones to respond to parathyroid hormone production.
Hypoparathyroidism can result from congenital disorders, iatrogenic causes (e.g., drugs,
rcmoval ol the porathyroid glands during thyroid or parath!-roid sto'qery, radiation), rn-
filtration ofthe parathyroid glands (e.g., metqstatic cqrcinoma. Il/ilson disease. sarcoid),
suppression of parathyroid function, HIV/AIDS, or idiopathic mechanisms.
Remember: The term muscular dystrophy refers to a group ofgenetic diseases marked by
the progressive weakness and degeneration olthe skeletal, or voluntary muscles, which con-
fiol molement. Oral manifestations include an increase in dental disease iforal hygiene is
neglected. weakness in the muscles of mastication leading to decreased maxillary biting
ibrce and a higher-incidence of mouth breathing and open bite.
The rerm hr..perthyroidism refers to any condition in which there is too much thyroid hormone
tln rorr'r, in the body. This most commonly results fron a generalized overactivity ofthe entire
ihlroid gland. a condition also known as diffuse toxic goiter or Graves'disease. Altematively,
one or nrore nodules or lumps in the thyroid may become overactive, a condition known as toxic
nodular goiter or Plummer's disease, The primary role ofthyroxin is to stimulate cellular me-
rabolism. grorvth and differentiation of all tissues. In excess, it leads to high basal metabolism,
tilrgue. \! eight loss, excitability. elevated temperature and generalized osteoporosis. Oral man-
ifestations are not too remarkable, but ifthe disturbance begins in the early years of life, the
F.en'rature eruption of the teeth and the prernature loss of the deciduous dentition are common
dndings.
T! pes of hi perthJ-roidisml. (Note: Besic symptoms of htperth,'-/oidisn dre present as h,ell as
lJdi|io aI \nptonts).
. Gra\'es'disease: is the most common form, occurs most frequently in women under 50
- goiter knlarged thyoid which moy catrse a bulge in the netkl
erophthalmos is common
- thickened skin over the shin area
. Plummer's disease (toxi. nodular goiler; afibcts both genders usually over 50
Erophthalmos is rare
Ofien uni-system, may present with only cardiac disease
lmportant: Thyroiditis causes temporary hypcrthyroidism, usually followcd with hypoth-
l roidism. Thyroiditis is an inflammation ofthe thyroid gland.
Therc are three main types of thyroiditis:
. Hashimoto's thyroiditis
. Subacute granulomatous thyroiditis
. Silent lymphocytic thyroiditis
. Dwarfism
. Mlredema
. Cretinism
. Acromegaly
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. Paget's disease
. Hypophosphatasia
. Hyperparalhyroidism
. Hyperthyroidism
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Hypothyroidism refers to a condition in which the amount ofthyroid hormone in the body
is below normal. This is the most common form ofthyroid function abnormality, and is
far more common than hyperrhyroidism. This condition is considerably more comn.ron in
women than in men. The most common cause of h)?othyroidism is Hashimoto's thy-
roiditis. The second most common cause is the treatment of hyperthyroidism. Hypothy-
roidism is characterized by pufiiness of the face and eyelids and swelling of the tongue
and larynx. The skin becomes dry and rough and the hair becomes sparse. The individual
has a low basal-metabolic rate and a low body temperature. The affected individuals
also have poor muscle tone, low strength and get tired very easily. Mentally they are very
sluggish. The treatment of hypothyroidism is straightforward and consists of adminis-
tering thyroid hormone (t hyt oxin).
lmportant: Histologically, multinucleated giant cells are scattered within a dclicate fibrocellular
Accumulalions ofhcmosiderin and extravasated red blood cells also rc present. As a result, thc
'iroma.
ussue-i appear rcddish-brown, accounting for the term "brown tumor." These lesions arc miuroscop-
rcall) idcntical to qentral giant cell granulomas.
Thc discasc spectrum ofprimary hyperparathyroidism rangcs from asynptomatic cases ldiag-
nosetl fion routine senon calcium determiralrotrs/, to severe cases oflcthargy and occasional coma.
Earl) synrptoms include faligue. weakness, nausca, anorexia, polyuria, thirst, depression, and con-
stipation. Frequcntly, bone pain and headaches are present. There are several clinical f'caturcs ass-
ociated primary hyperparathyroidism, classically described as "stones, bones, groans, and moans."
Lcsions ofthe kidneys, skclctal system, CI tract, and nervous systcm are responsible lor this syn-
drome complex. The rcnal component includes the prcsenc ol'renal calculi.
. \4tamin D
. Vitamin C
. Mtamin E
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Clinical findings:
. Osteopenia
. Bone softening/deformity: hourglass thorax, bowing of long bones
. Increased fractures. biconcave vertebral bodies
. Mottled skull
All bones are affected, specifically their epiphyseal growth plates. Osteomalacia appears
to be more common in women. This condition mav be asvmDtomatic until fracture occurs.
Cerebral palsy is a term used to describe a group ofdisorders affecting body movement
and muscle coordination. It is due to an insult to or anomaly ofthe brain's motor control
centers. This damage interferes with messages from the brain to the body, and from the
bod\ to the brain. The effects vary widely from individual to individual. Cerebral palsy
rs characterized primarily by spastic paralysis or impaiment of control or coordination
!r\ er \ oluntary muscles and is often accorrpanied by mental retardation, seizures and dis-
!rrders of Yision and communication.
\ote: No intraoral anomalies are unique to persons with cerebral palsy. However, several
conditions /r/rose /isted on the ltont ofthe card) are more comnton or more severe than in
the normal population.
. Cystic fibrosis
. Cerebral palsy
. Down syndrome
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. Hepatitis A
. Hepatitis B
. Hepatitis C
Cystic fibrosis is a congenital metabolic disorder that causes the exocrine glands (vhich
are glands thqt seqete.fluids into a duct) to produce abnormal scretions, resulting in
several symptoms, the most important of which affect the digestive tract and the lungs. In
some glands, such as the pancreas and those in the intestines, the secretions are thick or
solid (an ext essivef;, viscous mucous/ and may block the gland completely. The mucous-
producing glands in the airways ofthe lungs produce abnormal secretions that clog the air-
rvays and allow bacteria to multiply. The sweat glands secrete fluids that have a high
sodium and chloride content. Note: The staining olthe teeth is most likely due to the lact
that patients with cystic fibrosis are usually subjected to large amounts of tetracyclines
during childhood.
Si mptoms of CF include:
. Poor growth despite good appetite
. Malabsorption and foul, bulky stools: steatorrhea
. Chronic bronchitis (COPD) with cough
. Recurrent pneumonia: respiratory infections
. Clubbing offingers and toes
. Banel-chested appearance
l4tlLl-
l{epatitis A is highly contagious infectious disease involving the liver It is usually trans-
a
rnined by dre fecal-oral route. However, it may also be transmitted parenterally. tlepati-
ris -{ usually rcsults liom ingestion ofcontaminated food. milk. or water. Many outbreaks
of tl'ris tvpe are traced to ingestion ofseafood from polluted water. It is caused by an RNA
enteroYirus. [t most often occurs in young adults. The initial symptoms (bver malaise,
,tbdoninal pain. anorexia, jaundice.)of Hepatitis A appear after an incubation period of
-1-6 l eeks.
Darnage to the liver cells. also results in increased serum levels of enzymes, such as
transaminases, nonnally active in liver cells. The detection ofincreased serum levels of
rhese enzlrnes is used in diagnosing this disease. In most cases ofHepatitis A, the infec-
rion is selt'-limiting and recovery occurs within 4 months.
Oral complications: The only oral complication associated with hepatitis is the poten-
tial for abnormal bleeding in cases ofsignificant liver damage. Ifsurgery is required, it
is advisable to check with the patient's physician prior to scheduling the sLrrgery.
. Hepatitis C
. Hepatitis D
. Hepatitis E
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. Hyperthermia
. Younger age
. Cortisone
\utritional factors such as the amount ofprotein a patient is consuming is one ofthe most
rmpofiant factors which may effect the speed ofwound healing. Hypoproteinemia has been
shos'n to delay wound healing, while having a high protein diet has been shown to acceler-
ate u ound healing. Vitamins, especially Vitamin C, have been shown to be important in
proper wound healing.
. 3 mm well-encapsulated fibroma
. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma
. Burkitt's lymphoma
. Koplik spots
When the entire tumor is removed, it is called excisional biopsy technique. lfonly a por-
tion ofthe tumor is removed, it is called incisional biopsy technique.
An incisionaf biopsy (also called diagnostic biop.st) is done when lesions are too large
to excise initially without having established a diagnosis or are of such a nature that ex-
cision would be inadvisable.
An excisional biopsy is preferred ifthe size ofthe lesion is such that it may be removed along
u ith a margin ofnomral tissue and the wound can be closed primarily. Erample: A l -cm ex-
ophl-tic mass flfrich is a lesion that grovs ouf,rordfrom an epithelial surface) on the cheek.
The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a member olthe herpes virus group. It causes infectious
mononucleosis and has been associated with the subsequent development of two forms
of cancer: Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. EBV is also associ-
ated rr ith hairy leukoplakia, an opportunistic infection resulting in white patches ofthe
Iareral tongue. Hairy leukoplakia is a nonmalignant lesion seen almost exclusively in
AIDS patients. The virus specifically infects Blymphocytes and some epithelial cells.
Ir is associated rvith the production of atypical lymphocytes and lgM heterophile an-
tibodies identified by the heterophile test (also callecl the mononucleosis spot lest).
This antibody eventually appears in the serum of more than 80% ofthe patients with ir-
teL-rious mononucleosis, hence it is highly diagnostic of the disease
Remember:
. Rubella viruses cause German measles (rubella),which present with a characteristic
'ash (flat, pink spots on theface and then spreads to other bodl,parts).
. Paramyxoviruses can cause measles (rubeola) and mnmps. Rubeola is characterized
by fever. malaise and by the formation of Koplik's spots in the oral cavity. These spots
are small. bluish-white lesions sunounded by a red ring. They cannot be wiped offand
occur opposite the molars. Mumps cause enlargement of the parotid glands. Serious
complications include deafness in children and orchtlis (in/lammation ol the testis) in
males past puberty.
Misc.
. Initial inflammation
. Granulomatous inflammation
. Acute inflammation
. Subacute inflammation
A patient you saw yesterday had minor swelling of the submandibular space
associated with a carious #31. You prescribed amoxicillin and sent him home.
II called today to say the swelling has gotten worse. You squeeze him into the
schedule and notice that he has trouble breathing. You call an arnbulance to
escort him to the ER and tell the paramedics that he has Ludwig's angina,
Ludwig's angina is a severe and spreading infection that involvs the:
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Granulomatous inflammation is a subtype of chronic inflammation and is characterized
by granulomas, which are nodular collections of specialized macrophages referred to as
epithelioid cells. A rirn of lymphocytes usually sunounds granulomas. Granulomas are
produced by multinucleatd giant cells (Langerhans giant cells and./brcign bod1, giant
cells). All the other cell types characteristic of chronic inflammation, including plasma
cells, eosinophils, and fibroblasts, may also be associated with granulomas.
Note: Granulomatous inflarnrnation is characteristically associated with areas of
caseous necrosis produced by infectious agents, particularly Mycobacterium
tuberculosis,
. Tuberculosis: caused by the inhalation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Oral non-
healing chronic ulcers lollow lung infection. Important: Characterized by caseating
granufomas with multinucleated giant cells (Langerhans giont cells andJbreign body
giqnt cells).
Etiologic agents associated with granulomatous inflammation;
. Infectious agents
- TB and leprosy, which are mycobacterial diseases
Fungal infections (blastomyco,sis, histoplasmosis, qnd coccidioidom)'cosis)
Spirochetes (Treponema pallidum, which causes syphilis)
Cat scratch disease (caused h; an unnamecl gyam-negdive organisnt)
. Foreign material (e.g., suture or talc)
. Sarcoidosis (unknown etiology; it is non-necrotizing)
. Crohn's disease (il ls non-caseating)
Lud$ ig's angina oflen results fiom an odontogenic infection. As a result, the bacteriol-
ogl of theses infections generally involves oral flora, particularly anaerobes. Other rec-
ounized etiologies of Ludwig's angina include poor oral hygiene, IV drug abuse, trauma,
and tonsiliitis.
It is characterized by:
. Rapid onset
. The three facial spaces are involved bilaterally
. Board-like swelling offloor olthe mouth and no fluctuance is present
. Tlpical "open mouthed" appearance
. FIP\ siiAn of the tnnore
. Drooling. trismus, and fever
. Ditllculty eating, swallowing, breathing
. Tachvcardia. increased respiration rate
. Can lead to glottal edema; asphyxiation
-\inr av management, massive antibiotic coyerage (IV), and surgical incision and drainage
are the mainstays oftreatment.
Verv important: The most serious complication of Ludwig's angina is edema of the
glottis (i'hich is a slit-like opening behreen the true vocal corcls).
. Inflammation
. Administration of hydroconisone
. Necrosis
. Suppuration
. Pregnancy
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. l-2 mglkg
. 5- l0 mg/kg
.8-10 mg/kg
. t2-15 mg/kg
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The ESR is the rate at which red blood cells settle out in a tube of unclotted blood, ex-
pressed in millimeters per hour Blood is collected in an anticoagulant and allowed to sed-
iment in a calibrated glass column. At the end ofone hour, the lab techniciar measures the
distance the erlthrocytes have fallen in the tube. Elevated sedimentation rates are not spe-
cific for any disorder but indicate the presence of inflammation. Inflammation causes
an alteration ofthe blood proteins which makes the red blood cells aggregate, becoming
heavier than normal. The speed with which they fall to the bottom ofthe tube corresponds
to the degree of inflammation.
*** Death may result from ingesting as little as 2 g offluoride in an adult and l6 mg,&g in chil-
dren. Symptoms may appear with 3-5 mg/kg offluoride.
S) mptoms of acute fluoride poisoning include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea,
conr ulsions. and hypotension.
The treatment for acute fluoride poisoning includes: 1) Call poison control center, 2) Monitor vital
iigns. 3) Initiate basic life support as needed and 4) Get patient to the hospital
Fluoride poisoning may be ac\te (caused b1' a single larye close offluoride) or chronic (caused
hr long-term ingestion offluoride). The characteristic signs ofchronic fluoride poisoning are:
l. Osteosclerosis of the bones: which results fiom long-term ingestion of water with l0
to 15 ppm offluoride.
:. Dental fluorosis (enamel hypoplasia): which is due to fluoride intake during the cal-
cification stage oftooth development. This can occur in permanent and deciduous teeth.
\ote: [t has been estimated that the average American diet contains about 0.2 to 0.3 mg of
fluoride per day. lf I ppm of fluodde is added to the drinking watel about I to 2 mg of flu-
oride will be added to the diet daily. Balance studies have shown that when quantities offlu-
oride ingested do not exceed 4 to 5 mg daily, little is retained by the body. The finding in-
dicates the safety of the preventive dentistry programs based on the addition of fluoride to
drinking water in concentrations of approximately 1 ppm.
Important: Fluoride normally accumulates slowly in bones as a person ages. However, if
ingested in very high amounts, it accumulates rapidly. The intake of calcium in high doses
rvill reduce the absomtion ofdietarv fluoride.
. Hereditary
. Medications
. Tooth decay
. Mouth breathing
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Xerostomia (dry nouth) is not a disease, however, it can be a symptom of certain dis-
eases. Many times xerostomia is caused by failure ofthe salivary glands to function nor-
mally, but the sensation can also occur in people with normal salivary glands. Xerostomia
can cause health problems by affecting nutrition, as rvell as psychological health. At its
most extreme, it can lead to rampant tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Perhaps the most prevalent cause of xerostomia is medication. The main culprits are
antihistamines, antidepressants, anticholinergics (e.g., atropine and scopolamine),
anorexiants, antihypertensives, antipsychotics (e.g., chlorpromazine and prochlorper-
azine), anti-P arl<tnson agents, diuretics and sedatives.
The most common disease causing xerostomia is Sjiigren's syndrome /S.9/, a chronic
inflammatory autoimmune disease that occurs predominantly in postmenopausal women.
Sarcoidosis and amyloidosis are other chronic inflaurmatory diseases that cause xeros-
tomia. Other systemic diseases that can cause xerostomia include rheumatoid arthritis,
sl stemic lupus erythematosus, and scleroderma. Remember: Xerostomia is the most
common toxicity associated with radiation therapy to the head and neck.
\lalignant melanoma accounts for only 4% of all skin cancers; however, it causes the
createst numbcrofskin cancer rclatcd dcaths worldwide.
Clinical features:
. Malc' morc oftcn than fcmalcs
. L sually palalc or rnaxillary gingiva
. 5th decade or older
. A. B. C. D's of melanoma:
-\ = asymmctry
B = border inegularity
C : color variability (brown, black, blue, gray, pink)
D = diameter of /o/ief greater than l/4 inch
Excessive exposure to UV radiation from the sun may bc the primary cause ofmclanoma.
\falignant melanoma has bcen linked to both a lot of sun exposure over a lifetime and to
painful sunbums during childhood.
\ote: A nevus is a mole. Almost all moles are normal. Atypical (dl,splastic) nevi are un-
usual moles that are gencrally larger than normal moles and are eithcr flat or have a flat part.
They have irregular bordcrs and oftcn are variable shades olcolor, particularly brown. The
presence ofdysplastic nevi may mark a greater risk ofmalignant mclanoma developing on
apparently normal skin. See picture #46 in booklet
Name the malignant, epithelial cell tumor thrt chancteristically begins as
a papule and enlarges peripherally, developing a central crater that
erodes, crusts and bleeds. An example ofthis tumor is shown below.
ORALPATHOLOGY
A 62-year-old patient comes into your oflice complaining of his loose lower
molars. The health history reveals recent lower back pain. On a hunch, you
send him down the hall to the orthodontist to take a lateral skull radiograph
which reveals "punched-out" radiolucencies. You will refer this patient to the
physician suspecting a diagnosis of:
. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
. Hodgkin's lymphoma
. Multiple Myeloma
r'-ote: MOHS micrographic surgery is the most effective and state-of-the-art procedure
for skin cancer today, which offers the highest potential for recovery even if the skin
-
cancer has been previously treated by another method and recurred. With the MOHS tech-
nique. physicians are able to see beyond the visible disease, to precisely identify and re-
moVe the entire tumor layer by layer while leaving the surrounding healthy tissue intact
and unharmed. As the most exact and precise method of tumor removal, it minimizes the
chance ofre-growth and lessens the potential for scarring or disfigurement.
\Iultipfe mleloma f.r lso known as "Plastna Cell Mveloma') is a disease ofabnormalplasma cells that
mosr often build up in the bone marrorv. The cells form tumors in many bones ofthe body.
Clinical Features:
. \Ien 2:l (40-70 rears o/r// Vcrtcbrae, ribs, and skull are most frcquently involvcd; pain in
lumbar or thoracic region is a common early symptom.
. Jaws are rarely a primary site, but become involvcd in 70% of the cases, molar ramus area
most common site. Symptoms include swelling, pain, loosening ofthe teeth, and paresthesia.
Radiographic features: variable; slight demineralization to extensive dcstruction, characteristic
finding rs multiplc. small, discreet "punched out" radiolucencies in involvcd bones ln a patient
:u:pccted ofhaving multiple myeloma. a lateral skull radiograph is best to confirm the diagnosis.
Laborator-'- fi ndings: important in establishing diagnosis:
. Abnormal monoclonal immunoglobulin protein peak known as an M spike. The immunoglobulin
is usualll ofthe IgG or IgA class. with a monoclonal Jight chain cofrponent.
. Lrinary monoclonal light chains, so-called Bence Jones proteinu a
. Anemia
Treatment and Prognosis: chemotherapy, radiation; prognosis poor.
Important: A form ofamyloidosis occurs in l0% of multiple myeloma patients. It is due to the forma-
rron of complex proteins in which immunoglobulin light chains are precursors. Amyloid ptotein is de-
posited in various organs an can lead to organ dysfunction fspeciallr kidnq', hedfi, GI ltucl, liver and
. Lentigo maligna
. Acral lentiginous
. Nodular
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Cop"ighi @ 201 I '2012 - Dental Decks
on rhe palms, soles, or under the nails and is more common in African Americans.
Important: Malignant melanoma exhibits either initial radial (do not metastqsize) or yertr-
c^l lnetastasis mdf occur) gtowthpattems within the skin. Radial growth phase melanomas
include the superficial spreading, lentigo maligna, and acral lentiginous melanomas. Vertical
qro\\th is characteristic of nodular melanoma.
\ote: Skin cancer is a very common malignancy in the United States. Olthe different types,
basal cell carcinoma is most common followed bv souamous cell carcinoma and the least
common is malisnant melanoma.
The T:-Nl method of assessing the prognosis and thempy of malignant neoplasms is based
upon 1) the size ofthe primary tumor, 2) the presence ofregional lymph node involvement
and 3) the presence of distant metastases. This is represented as:
\ote: The use of this classification system is becoming less common. A major short-
corring ofthe TNM classification is the lack ofquantification of depth/penetration ofthe
umor.
. Dorsum
. Ventral surface
'Tip
. Posterior lateral border
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Squamous cell carciloma i'SCC) accounts for greater than 9070 oforal cavity and oropharyngeal malig-
nancics. Lip carcinomas account for 25,q/o b 30o% ofall oral cancers. Approximately 909/0 occur on the
lower lip due to increascd sun exposure. IntraorallJ', the most common site is thc posterior lateral bor-
der of the tongue, it is particularly uncommon to have lesions develop on thc dorsum or in the tip ofthe
tonglle. Metastases from tongue cancer are relativcly common at thc time ofprimary trcatmcnt. In gcn-
eral, metastatic deposits from SCC ofthe tongxe are found in the lymph nodcs ofthe neck. usually on
the ipsilateral side. The first nodes to become involved are the submandibular orjugulodigastric nodes
at the angle ofthe mandiblc. Noter The floor of the mouth is the second most common intraoral lesion
of SCC.
leukoplak'a, erytbroplakia
Soft palate-10-20 %
asympbmatic. red or sh'te
plaqres as ul.erared and
Orophartr{ l0% ofall hcad Tobacco, alcohol Men over 50. sore throat, Surgery and
and neck cancers dysphagia, paintul ulcer, irradiation
cewtcal mass
\laxillary sinus 30% ofallhead Unknown Men over 40, chronic Surgery and
and neck cancers sinusitis, butging of the iradiation
palate, loosening of teeth,
paresthesia in cheek
. "Horizontal" growth phase
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' Lip
. Tongue
. Floor of mouth
. Buccal mucosa
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Coprrighr O 201 | -2012 - Dental Decks
Melanomas develop initially as a flat phase without competence for metastasis called
the "radial growth phase". This refers to the initial growth of a melanona in a horizon-
tal plane. It is clinically macular or only slightly elevated. They then may evolve focally
an elevated part, the vertical growth phase, with metastatic competence.
The "vertical" growth phase is the phase that begins when neoplastic cells populate the
underlying dermis. lt is characterized clinically by an increase in size, a change in color,
nodularity and, at times, ulceration. Metastasis is possible once the melanoma reaches this
phase. Overall, patients with vertical growth phase melanomas have a cure rate of 7070.
Note: This phase predoninates in nodular melanoma.
Radial growth phase melanomas, although invasive, have a cure rate that approaches
1009'o with surgery alone. Radial growth phase melanomas include the superficial spread-
ing. lentigo maligna, and acral lentiginous melanomas.
Generally, the radial growth phase is described by the A,B,C,D's of melanoma:
A : asynmetry
B : border irregularity
C : color variability (brolvtr, black, blue, gray, pink)
D = diameter of (olexl greater than 1/4 inch
Remember: Malignant melanoma is an uncommon neoplasm of the oral mucosa. It ex-
hibits a definite predilection for the palate and the maxillary gingiva/alveolar ridge.
Untortunately. oral mucosa melanomas have a dismal prognosis. The five-year survival
rate for such tumors is < 20olo (/br skin lesions it i,s > 65%o).
Cancer ofthe tongue causes more deaths than do malignant lesions in other regions ofthe head
and neck. This has been attributed to the fact that it is a highly mobile organ that is richly en-
dorved rvith lymphatics and blood vessels which facilitate metastases. IntraorallY. the most
c'ommon sjte is the posterior lateral border of the tongue, it is panicularly uncommon to
har e lesions develop on the dorsum or on the tip ofthe tongue. Remember: Metastases tiom
ronsue cancer are relatively common at the time ofprimary treatment. In general. meiastatlc
deposits from SCC ofthe tongue are found in the lymph nodes ofthe neck, usuaily on the ip-
silateral side. The first nodes to become involved are the submandibular or j ugulodigastric
nodes at the angle ofthe rnandible.
Cancer ofthe lips: lip carcinomas account for 25 to 30% ofall oral cance$. Approximately
900 o occur on the lower lip due to increased sun exposure. Pipe smoking has also been im-
phcated in the etiology.
Cancer of the lloor of the mouth: is the second most common intraoral location of SCC. lt
occurs most comlronly in the anterior segment on either side ofthe midline, near the orifices
ofthe salivary glands. Metastasis to submandibular lymph nodes is not uncommon for lesions
tbund here. Note: Prognosis is very poor for lesions found here.
Cancer of the buccal mucosa: generally occurs along the plane of occlusion, midway an-
teropostenorly.
Cancer of the gingiva: is more common in the mandible than in the maxilla, and posterior
siles are seen more frequently than anterior
Note: Overall the 5-year suwival rate for SCC is 45% to 50%; with neck metastasis it is 25%.
ORAL PATHOLOGY
A 47-year-old IIIV*
patient is referred frorn his physician to you because ofan
exophytic growth in the maxillary lft mucobuccal fold. Unable to find an
odontogenic source, a triopsy was done. A starry-sky morphology was
found and a dismtl diagnosis of Burkitt's lymphoma was made.
Which virus is thought to be responsible for this lymphoma?
. Herpes virus
. Epstein-Barr virus
. Cytomegalovirus
. Human papillomavirus
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At the age ofnine, poet Lucy Grealy was diagnosed with Ewing's srrcoms of
the jaw. Although rare in fernales, and rare in the jaw, Ewing's sarcoma
most oftn presents radiographically as:
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Burkitt's lymphoma is a high-grade, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that is endemic in
Africa and occurs only sporadically in North America. It is manifested most often as a
large osteolytic lesion in the jaw (African fom) or as an abdominal mass (Non-African
form).
Burkitt's llmphoma is the first human cancer with strong evidence of a viral etiology. The
Epstein-Barr virus (t herpes-4tpe virus) has been isolated from cultures of tumor cells
and patients with Burkitt's lymphoma have high titers ofantibodies against EBV Also, an
antibody against a surface antigen on the tumor cells has been demonstrated,
Note: The Epstein-Ban virus is also associated with infectious mononucleosis, oral
hairy leukoplakia, and nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
\ote: jaw lesions usually present as expanding intraoral masses on the palate and
The
ringir,a. Lesions appear as soft tissue nodular masses and many are hemorrhagic.
See picture #37 in booklet. Radiographically, there is a moth-eaten, poorly marginated
destmction ofbone. See picture #38 in booklet
Eling's sarcoma is an uncommon, highly lethal, round cell sarcoma ofbone ofuncer-
tain origin. The most common sites for Ewing's sarcoma are the pelvis, the thigh, and the
trunk ofthe body. When the jaws are involved, there is predilection for the ramus ofthe
mandible. Ninety percent of Ewing's sarcoma occur between the ages of5 and 30 years.
and over 607o affect males. See picture # 39 in booklet
Pain. usually ofan intermittent nature, and swelling ofthe involved bone are ollen the ear-
liest clinical signs and symptoms of Ewing's sarcoma. Involvement of the mandible ol
maxilla may result in facial deformity, destruction of alveolar bone with loosening of
reerh. and mucosal ulcers. Feveq leukocytosis, raised ESR, and anemia are also present.
The highly malignant nature ofthis sarcoma is reflected in its propensity for metastasis,
especially to lungs, other bones, and the lymph nodes. Multiple method treatment proto-
cols. including surgery or radiation for local control and chemotherapy for systemic mi-
crometastases have dramatically improved the formerly dismal l07o 5-year swvival rate
to a 60olo 5-year suryival rate.
Important: The most common osseous malignancies are osteosarcomas, followed by
chondrosarcomas, fibrosarcomas and Ewing's sarcoma.
ORAL PATHOLOGY Neo
. Chondrosarcoma
. Osteosarcoma
. Sclerodema
. Chronic osteomyelitis
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. Nicotinic stomatitis
. Hemangioma
. Kaposi's sarcoma
. Leukemia
Osteosarcomas involving the mandible prcscnt most commonly with swelling and localized pain.
ln some cases, there may bc loosening and displacement of teeth as well as paresthesia duc to
involvement of the inl'crior alveolar nerve. Maxillary tumors display similar clinical symptoms
but nlay cause paresthesia ofthe infraorbital nervc, epistaxis. nasal obstnlction, or cyc problems.
Radiographicalln early ostcosarcomas nray be characterized by localized widening ofthe peri-
odontal ligament space of onc or two tccth. Advanced tumors can be visualized as moth-eaten
radiolucencies or irrcgular. poorly marginated radiopacities. See picture #42 in booklet
RmemberAIDS is caused by the RNA refovirus, HIV (d&o tdllel HTLV-lll). The HIV infection is
acqnircd with IV drrrg use as we1) as by scxual conlact (homosexual and heterosexnal) and contaminated
blood Droducts.
. Lipoma
. Ranula
. Lymphoma
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Almost all oral lymphoepithelial cysts arc lcss than 0.6 cm. in diameter at thc timc ofdiagnosis, which
is usually during the teen years or the third decade oflife. The site most colnmonly affected is thc floor
of the mouth, but the lateral and ventral tongue are not uncommon sites ofoccurrcnce. nor is thc soft
palarc, espccially lhe mucosa abovc thc pharyngcal tonsil. This cyst has a clinical appearance similar to
that ofan epidermoid cyst or a dcmroid cyst ofthc oral/phanngcal mucosa, but its growth potential is
much lcss than ihc othcr cysts.
Lymphomas arising rvithin the oral cavity account for less than 59/o oforal malignancies. In the head and
ncck. most lymphomas start in the rcgional Iymph nodes or rvithin cxtranodal lymphoid sites in areas
known as mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues (MALT h'nphonrur./. Within thc oral cavity. lymphoid
tissue is chiefly represented in Waldeyer's ring fu ring oflvnphdtic tissue fonied br lhe tvo palatine
tonsils. Ihe phanngeal tonsil,theli gual tonsil, dnd inteh^ening htnphoid tissre). Ofimponancc rcla-
tive to lymphoma is that in both nodal and extranodal sitcs, neoplasia can occur A ftrndamental aim is
Io separatc lymphomas into two grollps:
. Ilodgkin's t)pe: is charactcrizcd by painless enlargcmcnt of lymph nodes or extranodal tissue.
\\'ithin Ihc oral cavity, tonsillar enlargement. usually unilateral. may be seen in the carly phascs. His-
tologicalll-, cominon to all forms ofHodgkin's diseasc is the prcscncc ofmalignant l)'rnphoid cells and
non-ncoplastic inflamrnatory cells. including Iymphocytes, macrophages, eosinophils. and plasma
cclls. Ofgreatest significance is thc identification ofthe Reed-Sternberg cell, which must be pres-
ent fbr thc diagnosis of Hodgkin's disease to be established. Note: The Ann Arbor system of clini-
cal stsging is uscd to determine the clinical extent ofthe disease and is an impofiant factor fbr dcciding
!he tJ-pe and intensity oftherapy and helps dcterminc thc prognosis.
. \on-Ilodgkins tlpei when primary oral soft tissues lesions are present (\'hich i.t rare). thcy are
charactcnzed by an absence ofsymptoms and by a relatively soft charactcr, oftcn $'ilh overlying r.rl-
.erations. If bone is the primary site. alveolar bone loss and tooth mobility are oftcn prcscnting
.rgns. S\!elling. pain, numbncss ofthc lip. and pathologic fracture may also be associatcd with bone
lesrons. In general. thcrc arc t\r'o groups ofnon-Hodgkin's lymphona noddar (bllicular"/ and diffuse
ibrms. For non-Hodgkin's Iymphomas. numerous classification schemes have cvolved. Thcsc in-
;lude the classifications ofLuke and Collins, the WHO, Rappaport, and thc NIH International Work-
lns Fonnulation.
*** This is false; the mandible is affected far more ftequently than the n.raxilla.
The most cornmon malignancy affecting skeletal bones is metastatic carcinoma. How-
e\ er. netastatic disease to the mandible and maxilla is unusLra'l (onl.v about I %o). Most im-
portantll, a tumor of the jaws may be the first evidence of dissemination of a kno$'n
rurlrrr from its primary site.
\ote: \letastases to the jaws most commonly originate from primary carcinomas of the
breasr (ade o(arcinona), kidney (renal cell carcinona).lur'g (carcinona), colon (ade-
tr()Ltr(i .) t.t). proslale (adenocarcinona) and thyroid gland (ode ocarcinonn), in de-
creasing order of fiequency.
Clinical features of metastatic jaw lesions:
. Ofder adults (average age is 561,ears)
. The mechanism ofspread to the jaws is usually hematogenous from the primary vis-
ceral neoplasm
. \\'ithin
the jar.v, the angle and body of the mandible are more commonly involved
.Bone pain, loosening of teeth, lip paresthesia, bone swelling, gingival mass, and
pathologic fracture may be clinically evident
. The radiographic appearance of mostjaw metastases is poorly marginated' radio-
lucent, irregular, moth-eaten, expansile defects
\ote: Microscopicalll', the diagnosis of metastatic carcinoma in difficult cases can be
r erified u,ith an immunoperoxidase stain for cytokratin, which is present in all carci-
noma cells.
Important: The prognosis for patients with metastatic carcinoma to the jav's is grave,
rvith a disrnal l0olo 5-year survival and over two-thirds dead within a year.
Neo
Tl, N2, Ml
7A
Coptrighr e 2011 201? Denral Decks
. Papilloma
. Erythroplakia
. Vemrcous carcinoma
. Hyperkeratosis
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Cop)righr O 20ll 201? Denral Decks
Clinical Staging of Carcinoma of the Oral Cavity
. \I = Distant metastasis
- !tX: Presence of distant metastasis can not be assessed
lfo: No distant metastasis
fI1: Clinical and/or radiographic evidence of metastasis other than regional
ll mph nodes
Clinical Features:
. \{ale predilection
. Broad-based, exophytic, indurated lesion
. Diffuse, whitish, cauliflower or coral papillary mass
. \{andibular mucobuccal fold, alveolar mucosa and palate
. Slo*-growing, continuous enlargement
. Painless
\ote: Tobacco and human papillomavirus (subtypes 16 and 18)may be etiologic fac-
tors. It is treated by surgical excision and has a good prognosis.
Neo
. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
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CoDrighr Lq 20ll l0ll Denral Decks
While attempting to give in inferior alveolar nerve block, ifyou inject the
anesthetic solution into the capsul of the parotid gland, you may cause a
Bell's palsy like feeling for the patient by anesthetizing the:
. Glossopharyngeal nerve
. Hl.proglossal nerve
. Facial nen'e
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Copynghr C 201 l,:01 2 - Dentat Decks
Squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant neoplasm ofstratified squamous epithelium that is ca-
pable oflocally destructive growth and distant metastasis. It is the most common type oforal
cancer, accounting for over 90%o ofall malignant neoplasms ofthe oral cavity. lt is two times
more prevalent in m ales (40-65 years of4ge./. See pictures #44 and #45 in booklet.
Possible sites:
. Lower lip (most common site)
. TottgU.e (posterior leteral border is the most common loccttion, dorsum least common lo-
cqtiotr)
. Floor ofthe mouth (least favorqble plognosis)
. Sofl palate (u conmon)
. Gingiva/alveolar ridge
. Buccal mucosa
Clinical fatures:
. Early presentation ofleukoplakias and erythroplakias
. Painless ulcer, tumorous mass, or verrucous (papillary gro\tth)
. Occasional loosening or loss ofteeth
. Possible paresthesia ofthe teeth and lower lip
Risk f'actors identified include smoking, alcohol consumption, painful and ill-fitting dentures,
chronic inflammation and the use ofsmokeless tobacco. Important: Tobacco use is the pri-
mary risk factor Note: Causes ofgenetic alterations which results in loss ofcell cycle con-
trol. abnonnal signaling, increased cell survival, and cell motility include tobacco, human
papillomavirus (subq,pes 16 and l8), and heredity.
Remember: The most reliable histologic criterion for a diagnosis oforal squamous cell car-
cinoma is invasion,
Bell's palsy is a form offacial paralysis resulting from damage to the facial nrve.It can
strike at any age; however, it disproportionately attacks pregnant women and people who
have diabetes, influenza, a cold, or some other upper respiratory ailment.
Clinical signs includea unilateral paralysis ofall facial muscles with loss ofeyebrow and
forehead wrinkles, drooping ofthe eyebrows, flattening ofthe nasolabial furrow, sagging
of the comer of the mouth and the inability to frown or raise the eyebrows. The upper
and loler lips may also be paralyzed on the side affected.
.{tier its sudden onset the paralysis begins to subside within two or three weeks, and grad-
ual. complete recovery occurs in over 85yo of patients.
Triggering events related to Bell's palsy are acute otitis media, atmospheric pressure
change. exposure to cold, ischemia of the facial nerve near the stylomastoid foramen,
\lelkersson-Rosenthal syndrome, and multiple sclerosis. Note: Melkersson-Rosenthal
slndrome is the term used when cheilitis occurs with facial palsy and plicated tongue.
A 2s-year-old college student comes into your olfice cornplaining that when she
wakes up she has trouble opening her mouth. When conducting a TMJ exam,
you note tenderness ofthe right latral pterygoid and non-reciprocal clicking
of the right TMJ. What is the most likely cause of the patient's myofacial pain?
. Trauma
. Muscle spasm
. Periodontal disease
. Tumor
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Copyrighr O 20ll'2011- Dental Decks
A S3-year-old patient comes to your o{Iice and notes that sometims when
he swallows, he gets a sharp 'jolt" on the right side of his throat. He says the
pain is seyre and he can even feel it in his ear. The most likely diagnosis is:
. Postherpetic neuralgia
. Orolingual paresthesia
. Frey's syndrome
. Glossopharyngeal neuralgia
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Coplriglrt C 20ll ?012 Denral Decks
Such spasm may arise in one ofthree ways: muscular overextension, muscular over- con-
traction or muscle fatigue. The most frequent cause ofthe spasm seems to be muscle fa-
tigue. This syndrome is seen predominantly in women, usually in the 20 to 40 age range,
and generally occurs unilaterally.
The pain itself is usually unilateral and is described as a dull ache in the ear or preauric-
ular area, rvhich may radiate to the angle ofthe mandible, temporal area or lateral cervi-
cal area. The muscle most apt to exhibit tenderness is the lateral pterygoid muscle.
\ote: There are no radiographic findings associated with MPS (mtofacial pain syn-
droDte)
Treatment: Most cases are selflimiting. Soft diet. limited talking, no gum chewing,
moist heat. NSAIDs and Diazepam help relieve symptoms.
Frel 's sl ndrome (also called the auriculotemporal syndrome) ts an unusual phenome-
non. * hich arises as a result of damage to the auriculotemporal nerve and subsequent
reinnen ation of the sweat glands by parasympathetic salivary hbers.The syndrome fol-
lo* s some surgical operation such as removal ofa parotid tumor or ramus ofthe mandible,
trr an infection of the parotid that has damaged the auriculotemporal newe (a branch of
---l
I /.
. Myasthenia gravis
. Myelofibrosis
. Multiple sclerosis
. Graves' disease
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Copynghr C 201 l'201 2 - Dental Dects
. Glossopharyngeal neuralgia
. Trigerninal neuralgia
. Postherpetic neuralgia
. Diabetic neuralgia
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, often disabling disease that randomly attacks the CNS
lhrain ancl spinal cord). It is believed to be due to an autoimmune response in which the
inxnune system attacks a person's own tissue. Twice as many women as men have MS,
s ith the onset of symptoms occuring most often between the ages of 20 and 40. Symp-
toms may range from tingling and numbness to paralysis and blindness. Patients with
multiple sclerosis sometimes have facial andjaw weakness. In addition, both Bell's palsy
and trigeminal neuralgia may develop more frequently in patients with MS.
Trigeminal neuralgia is an excruciating painful illness in which the afl-licted f'eels sud-
den stabJike pains in the face. The pains usually last only moments, but are among the
most severe pains humans can feel. The pain is provoked by touching a "trigger zone,"
n picallv near the nose or mouth. lt is caused by degeneration ofthe trigeminal nerve or
b1 pressure being applied to it. Pain distribution is unilateral and follows the sensory dis-
tribution of cranial nerve V, typically radiating to the maxillary (I'-2i or mandibular
/ I --l/ area. At times, both distributions are affected. The momentary bursts ofpain recur
in clusters. lasting many seconds. Paroxysmal episodes ofthe pains may last for hours.
. Globulomaxillary cyst
. Nasolabial cyst
. Nasopalatine cyst
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Copliiglt O 20l l-2012 - Dotal Deck
. Branchial cyst
. Globulomaxillary cyst
. Dermoid cyst
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CopynShr O 20ll-201? - Dental Decks
The nasolabial cyst has been called, inaccurately, nasoalveolar cyst. This latter designa-
tion is inappropriate because the entity is not a true cyst ofthe maxilla. Rather, it repre-
sents a soft tissue cyst without involvement ofthe alveolus, hence the prelerence for the
designation "nasolabial cyst." Note: Because thjs cyst is extraosseous, it is not likely to
be seen on a radiograph.
Nasopalatine
- most common
- heart shaped
Hard Palate
lI
I
Median Palatal
- rare
. Thc thl roglossal duct cyst, which may arise fiom any portion of the thyroglossal duct. This
cy st is therefore lound in a midline position and is usually dark in color It may bc vascular as to
rcsenrblc a hemangioma. One lrequent important symptonr is hemorrhage into the mouth, re-
sulting from thc rupture of the overlying veins. Complctc cxcision of the tracl to the base of the
Iongue. frequently including a portion ofthc hyoid bone, is nccessary tbr a curc. Note: Whcn mi-
rration ofthc thyroid gland lails and the gland rernains in thc basc ofthe tongue. it is called lin-
gual thl roid or eclopic lingual thyroid. Lingual thyroids are lour tjmes more comnon in females
than in rrales.
. The branchial /.1eli/ cyst or cervical lyrnphoepithelial cyst is located in the latcral portion ofthe
ncck. usuallv anterior to the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Thcy may also appear in the submand-
rbLrlar area. adjaccnt to the parotid gland. or around lhc stcmocleidomastoid muscle. The majorily
rr: lhese t-vpes arise ftom remnants ofthe second branchial cleft or pouch. This cyst is lincd with
.rlified and slratified squamous epithelium and conlains a l11ilky or mucoid fluid. The treatment
aon5isrs ofconlplele surgical excision. Note: The branchial cyst has an intraoral countcrpart known
a: Ihe lt mphoepithelial cyst. The floor ofthe moulh is the most common site lor thcse lcsions, foll-
o\\ ed bv the tongue
. Thc dermoid cyst is rclativcly uncommon in the oral cavity. This cyst frequcntly contains hair,
\ebaceous and sweat glands, as well as tooth structures. The most common site is thc midline of
the floor ofthe mouth ifabove the mylohyoid muscle.lt appcars as a mass in the upper neck
if belol\ the mylohyoid muscle. The treatment is the surgical removal ofthe entirc tulnor
Important: Globulomaxillary cysts are thought to dcvclop fiom epithelial rcmnants remaining tbl-
los ingjoining ofthc globular portion ofmcdian nasal process with thc maxillary process. They arc
characterized by a large "pear-shaped" radiolucency between the maxillary lateral incisor and
cuspid. Thcy arc asymptomatic, all regional teeth are vital. They tcnd to cause divergence ofthc
roots. However, thcrc is considerable controversy as to whether this cyst actually exists. Many of
these are, in reality apical cysts associated with non-vital lateral incisors. Olien thcsc apical cysts
havc a tcndcncy to cxtcnd betwccn thc two tccth to simulatc a globulomaxillary cyst.
All of the following cysts are developmenttl (or ftssural)
EXCEPT one. Which one is the EXCEPTIOM
. Branchiogenic cyst
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Copyrighr C 2011'2011- Dental Decks
. Nasopalatine duct (canal): "hearrshaped" radiolucency in midline, most frequent
type of nonodontogenic cyst. Usually asymptomatic or may produce an elevation in the
anterior part ofthe palate.Teeth are vital, Treatment is enucleation. Note: It is caused by
cystification ofthe nasopalatine duct remnants. Remember: It is also known as incisive
canal cyst and may be located within the nasopalatine canal or within the palatal soft tis-
sues at the point ofthe opening ofthe c anal (in this loccrtion it is called a cyst ol the pala-
tine papilla).
. Nasolabial (nasoalveolar): is superficially located in soft tissues of the upper lip. This
is an extraosseous cyst. Treatment is surgical excision.
. Nledian palatal: rare, may occur any'rvhere along median palatal raphe. May produce
s$ elling on palate. Treatment is enucleation. Note: Many oral pathologists now believe
that this cyst represents a more postedor presentation of a nasopalatine canal cyst .
. \Iedian alveolar: rare. occurs in bony alveolus between central incisors. Distinguished
liom periapical cyst by the fact that adjacent teeth are vital. Treatment is enucleation.
Of the cysts ofthejaw, those that arise from epithelial remnants in the incisive canal are
the most common type of maxillary developmental cyst. Histologically, this cyst is lined
rvith vessels, nerves and mucous glands in the wall. They most often remain limited as to
size and are asymptomatic. Some of them, however, become infected or show a
tendency to grow extensively. When tl'tis occurs, surgical intervention is indicated.
\ote: The soft tissue (ancl.far less common) v^ri^nt of the nasopalatine canal cyst is the
cr st of the palatine papilla.
\\'hen making a diagnosis ofthis cyst, the following two cysts should be ruled out:
. The globulomaxillary cyst: usually appears between the roots of the lateral inci-
sor and those ofthe canine. lt is "pear-shaped" and often causes the roots ofinvolved
reerh to diverge. See picture f87 in booklet
. The median palatal cyst: usually situated in the midline of the hard palate, poster-
ior to the premaxilla. Clinically, Ihis lesion presents as a firm swelling, which is usu-
ally painless. Note: Some investigators now believe that this cyst represents a more
posterior presentation ofa nasopalatine duct cyst, rather than a separate cystic degen-
eration ofepithelial rests at the line ollusion of the palatine shelves.
See picture ff48 in booklet
The soft tissue, and far less common, varlant of
the nasopalatine canal cyst is the:
. Nasolabial cyst
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Coprighr O 2011,2012, DeninlDecks
An &year-old girl who looks like she is 14 years old comes with her fathor
into your ollice. Her frther states during the health history that she hNs
Mccune-Albright syndrome. Which of the following would you
NOT EXPECT the p.tient to have?
. Heart disease
. Cafe-auJait spots
. Endocrine dysfunction
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Coplright O 201 I -20 l2 - Denral Decks
The nasopalatin dvct cyst (NPDC) is a developmental non-odontogenic cyst that only oc-
cuIS in the anterior maxilla from the embryonic remnants ofnasopalatine ducts. lt is usually
located between teeth #s 8 & 9 but can be as posterior as the mid-palate and as anterior as the
incisive papilla. It is the most common non-odontogenic oral cyst of the oral caviry lt oc-
curs at any age, but is most common in the fourth to sixth decade oflife and is more common
in males. It is usually asymptomatic and is discovered during routine dental examination. If
infected, the patient complains ofpain with swelling and even drainage; however, swelling is
not common. When present, swelling is often in the incisive papilla area in smaller lesions but
can be in the mid-palate in larger lesions and may be buccal and mid-palatal in very large le-
sions. Radiographically it usually presents as a bilateral, well-circumscribed, round, ovoid
or heart-shaped radiolucency. Tooth displacement or diverging ofthe roots ofthe central in-
cisors is commonly identified. Depending on the size and clinical symptoms, treatment ranges
tiom no treatment to surgical curettage ifthe cyst is infected or interlering with a prosthetic
appliance. Recurence is rare and prognosis is good. Note: The cyst of th palatine papilla
is identical to that of its intrabony counterpart.
The median mandibular cyst, like the globulomaxillary cyst, was once considered a fissural
c.vst. Ho$'ever, embryonic evidence rcfutes thrs (there are no epithelial lined processes).It is
a \ ery rare cyst that appears in the midline ofmandible. Most of them are periapical, lateral
periodontal cysts or odontogenic keratocysts.
Remember: The nasolabial cyst has been called, inaccurately, nasoalyeolar cyst. This lar
ter designation is inappropdate because the entity is not a true cyst ofthe maxilla. Rather, it
represents a soft tissue cyst without involvement ofthe alveolus, hence the preference for the
designation "nasolabial cyst." Note: Because this cyst is extraosseous, it is not likely to be
seen on a radiograph.
-\lbright's syndrome (also cqlled McCtne-Albright s-vtdrcrre/ is the most severe form
of poll-ostotic librous dysplasia. It affects young people (males andJbmales equally). It
is characterized by Caf-auJait spots on the skin, and endocrine abnormalities (the most
conunon ol u,hich is precocious sexual development infemales). The extent to which each
ofthese problems exist in those with the syndrome is quite variable. The hallmark of Al-
bright's syndrome is premature puberty in the female. Early sexual development in the
nrale is less comnon than the female.
Clinical features:
. Early childhood
. \{ultiple, slow-growing, painless expansile bone lesions confined to the craniofacial
area or throughout the skeleton
. endocrine manifestations; in females often sexual precocit-v
.lrregular shaped Cafe-aulait spots on the torso and sometimes intraorally
. Disfiguring
. Increased level ofserum alkaline phosphatase
There is no specific treatment for this syndrome. Drugs that inhibit estrogen production,
such as testolactone. have been tded with some success.
. Hyperparathyroidism
. Cherubism
. Paget's disease
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Cop)rishr O 201I -2012 - Dental Decks
. Is a common lesion and appears more frequently than does the peripheral giant cell gran-
uloma
.Is present almost exclusively in the small bones ofthe hands and feet
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CoDright A 20ll-2012 - Dental Decks
ldiopathic histiocytosis or Langerhans cell disease, also formcrly known as histiocylosis X,
is a disorder charactcrized by a prolifemtion of cells exhibiting phenotypic charactcristics of
Langerhans cells, The clinical manifestations of this process range from solitary or multiplc
bone lesions to disseminated visccral, skin, and bonc lcsions.
Traditionally, idiopathic histiocytosis has been used to encotrlpass thrcc disorders: eosinophil-
ic granuloma, Hand-Schullcr-Christian syndromc, and Lellcrcr-Si$,e disease.
. Eosinophilic granuloma (cltronic loculized Jbnn) has refened to patients with soJitary or rnul-
tiplc bonc lcsions only
. Hand-Schuller-Christian syndrome (chronic listelnitvl?d lbrn.) has represented a specific
clinical triad of lytic bone lesions, exophthalmos, and diabetes insipidus. Many ol thesc paticnts
also cxhibit lymphadenopathy, dermatitis, splenornegaly, or hepatomcgaly.
. Letterer-Silve disease (.rcute dissemitvted fonn) has been charactcrizcd by a rapidly progrcs-
sir e. usually latal, clinical coursc. Widcsprcad organ, bonc, and skin involvement by the prolif-
Lrdti\e lrocc:'s rn Inl'anls has been the comnton presenlalion.
ldiopathic histiocytosis is generally regarded as a condition ofchildren and young adults. Oral
changes may bc the initial presentation in all fonns ofthe disorder. Tenderness, pain and srvelling
arc liequcnt patient complaints. Loosening ofthe teeth in thc arca ofthe affected alvcolar bone is
a conlnlon occulrcncc. Thc gingival tissues are frequently inflamed, hypcrplastic, and ulceraled.The
ja\\ s mal exhibit solitary or multiple radiolucent lesions. The lesions frcqucntly ali'ect the alveo-
lar bonc. rcsu)ting in the appearance of teeth that arc "floating in space." Bone lcsions rvitb a
.h:rrpiy- circumscribcd, punched-out appearance may also occu. in the central aspects of the
:randiblc or naxilla.
\licroscopicall!, eosinophils are mixed with thc tumor Langcrhans cells. some ofwhich arc mult-
rnuc lci e d.
Prognosis is Very good when the disease is localized, however, the disseminated form is usually
:...te1.
The central giant cell granuloma is a benign process that occurs almost etclusively within the jaw
bones. The tumor typically prescnts as a solitary, radioluccnt lesion ofthc mandible or maxilla- It is an
uncommon lesion and occurs less frequently lhan does the peripheral giant cell granuloma. It is
loL)nd prcdominantly in children and young adults. Fcmalcs are atltcted lnorc frcquently than males.
Lcsions occurmorc frequenlly in thc mandible than in themaxilla. These lcsions tend to involvc thcjaws
entarior to thc molar teeth. Thc ccntral giant coll graiuloma typically produces a painlcss cxpansion or
.\\ elling ofthc affected jaw
(-entral giant cell granuloma is classified into aggressive and non-aggressive types; the aggressrvc
lre tends to occur in younger patients and is known to cause disfiguration, especially after surgcry.
Radiographically, it consists ofa multilocular or, less frcqucntly. unilocular radioluccncy ofbonc. The
r::rgins of the Iesion are relatively well demarcatcd. often presenting a scallopcd border. Roots of the
i3.th nlay br displaced and. less commonly, rcsorbed. See picture #,ll in booklet
Important: Thc lcsion is composed ola proliferation ofspindled libroblasts in a slroma contain ing \ ari-
.rb.c anlounts of collagen. N{ultinucleated giant cells are ptesent lhtoughout the conneclivc tissuc
\otei Thc differential diagnosis includes amcloblastoma. odontogenic mlxoma, odontogenic kerato-
.l !t. and aneurysmal bone cyst.
Thc usual treatment is surgcry however. treatment altematives to surgery have emcrged with success_
1u1 results ranging from stcroid injections to calcitonin injcctions or nasal spray to interferon alpha-2a
injections . \\,hich are administered 2-J times pcr rvcck for several months.
. L The microscopic appearance ofccntral giant ccll granulona is vimrally identical to ihe
\otei' giant cell lesion /B/?rtri /rrrol/ associated lvith hyperparath] roidism. However. blood
. --' . tests \r'ill shotv an increase in serum calcium and alkaline phosphatase and a decrcasc in
serum phosphorus in hypcrparathyroidism.
2. The giant cell tumor of bone may present with similar clinical and mjcroscopic features.
However, the Siant cell tunor is regardcd as rare in thejaws in comparison to the cenffal giant
ccll granuloma. They occur most frequently in long bones. See picture #96 in booklet
ORAL PATHOLOGY N-O Tirm
A 21-year-old male patient is home from colleg and came to you becaus his
"bite seems off " A quick physical assessment seems to indicate that
his chin is deviated to the right. Taking a panoramic x-ray and
comparing to the previous panoramic radiographs you have in his
chart, you notice that the lft condylar neck seems to have elongated.
What condition does this patient most likely have?
. Condylar agenesis
. Condylar hyperplasia
. Condylar hypoplasia
. Hemifacial microsorria
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Coplaight aq 2011-:01l - DenitlDecls
. The lesions are usually radiolucent, well-circumscribed, and may have a "cotton wool"
appearance
. The lesionsare usually radiopaque, not well-circumscribed, and may have a "ground-
glass" appearance
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Copyrighr'-C 2011 20ll - Denlal Decks
Congenital and developmental anon.ralies ofthe temporomandibularjoint, although rela-
tively rare, are important to identiry early to reestablish normal midface growth centers.
The more common entities include condylar agenesis, condylar hypoplasia, and condy-
lar hyperplasia.
Condylar agenesis is the absence of all or porlions of the coronoid process, condylar
process, ramus and mandibular body. Other first and second arch abnormalities are com-
monly seen. Early treatment is indicated to limit the degree of deformity, with the pri-
mary objective being to re-establish the condylar growth center. This is best done with a
costochondral graft with or without orthodontic surgery and facial plasric augmentation.
Condylar hypoplasia may be congenital, but is usually the result of trauma or infection.
The most common facial deformity is shortness of the mandible with deviation of the
chin towards the affected side. Treatment ofthe child involves the placement ofa cos-
tochondral graft. In the adult, treatment involves either shortening of the normal side or
lengthening ofthe involved side. Both result in an acceptable cosmetic and functional re-
sult. Onhodontic therapy is necessary in all cases to establish proper occlusion.
Fibrous dysplasia is an idiopathic condition in which normal mcdullary bone is gradually replaced by
an abnormal fibrous connective tissue proliferation. The mesenchymal tissue contains varying amounts
of ostcoid and osseous material that prcsumably arises through mctaplasia.
The discase most commonly presents as an asymptomatic, slow enlargement of thc involved
bcrne. It may involve one bone or several boncs concomitantly.
Forms of fibrous dysplasia:
. \Ionostotic: is the most common, comprising 70o% ofcases. There is an equal male to fcmalc ratio,
and this fclrm is the most likely to quiesce at puberty. A t!?ical monostotic lcsion will involve thc
femur tibia. or ribs, uith 25% occuring in the bones ofthe skull. See picture #49 in booklet
. Pol] ostotic fibrous dysplasia applies to cases in rvhich nrore than one bone exhibits evidcncc ofthc
disorder. It is relatively uncommon; however, many patients have lesions of the skull, facial bones,
t r.ia$ s. as a componcnt ofthe condition. Note: Alkaline phosphatase may bc elevated in up to 30%
oipatients $ith polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, and a dramatic dse may herald malignant degeneration.
Calcium and phosphorus tcnd to be normal.
l. Craniofacial librous dysplasia is a form offibrous dysplasia charactcrized by maxillary
\otes- lesions that extend to involve the maxillary sinus, zygoma, sphcnoid bone. and floor ofthe
orbit.
Itfccune-Albright syndrome is a designation that has been applied to patients with
polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, cutaneous melanotic pigmentation fcafe au lait macules), and
endocrine abnormalities (most commonlr precocious sexual development infenales).
3. Jaffe-Lichtenstein syndrome has been used to describe patients with multiple bone le-
sions offibrous dysplasia and skin pigmentations.
4. Osteoblastoma is an uncommon primary lesion of bone that occasionally arises in the
rnaxilla or mandible. It is a benign process that may exhibit a seemingly rapid onset and
cause pain. The mandible is the most liequent head and neck sitc. Young adult malcs arc
most commonly affected. Radiographically, is a well-circumscribed lesion that varies fiom
radiolucent to radiopaque. May have a "sun-ray" paftcm ofnew bone production.
. In the retromolar pad region
. On the lingual surface ofthe mandible, most often in the premolar region
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CopriglrtO 20ll-2012 - Dnral D4ks
. Asymptomatic
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Tori and exostoses are nodular protuberances of mature bone whose precise designation
depends on anatomic location. These lesions are of little clinical significance; they are
non-neoplastic and rarely are a source ofdiscomfon. The precise etiology ofthese lesions
remains obscure, although evidence has been presented to suggest that the torus may be
an inherited condition. Note: The etiology ofexostoses is also unklown. It has been sug-
gested that the bony growths represent a reaction to increased or abnormal occlusal
stresses ofthe teeth (i.e., bruxism) in the involved areas.
Mandibular tori (also called torus mandibularis) are bony. exophytic growths that occur
along the lingual surface ofthe mandible superior to the mylohyoid ridge.
Vandibular tori may occur singly, however, there is a marked tendency toward trilateral
occurrence, and the lesion is not necessarily confined to the premolar region. Unlike
palatal tori. the mandibular tori are more readily demonstrated radiographically.
forr huoxillary and mandibulor) are ofno pathological significance and rarely are they
erf clinical significance r.vhile the normal teeth are still present. If, howeyer, a complete
denture needs to be made, they should be carefully removed.
*** This is false; these lesions, with rarc cxccptions, arise in tooth-bearing regions ofthc
iau s. most ofien in the mandibular premolar-molar area. See picture #89 in booklet
Thc ossifling libroma is a bcnign fibro-osseous lesion of the jaws that is considercd by
nran\ in\estigators to dcvclop fiom undiffercntiated cells ofthe periodontal ligament. The
:imilaritics between this lesion and thc ccmcntifying fibroma are numerous. Both tumors
occur in similar age groups and locations and manifest comparablc clinical characteristics.
The ossif-ing fibroma is a slow-growing, expansile lesion that is usually asymptomatic when
d:scorered. Thcsc lcsions, with rare exceptions, arise in tooth-bcaring regions ofthejaws,
most oflen in the mandibular premolar-molar area. They are uncommon lesions that tend
ro occur in fcmales during the third and fourth decades of life.
The most important radiographic feature ofthis lesion is the well-circumscribed radi-
rrluccncy \r'ith a sharply defined border Thcy prcscnt a variable appearance dcpcnding on
thc maturation or thc amount olcalcification present. As thc lcsion matures, it eventually
becomes a relatively uniform radiopaque mass.
The tumor consists ofa collagenous stroma that contains varying numbers ofunifbrm spin-
dled or stellate cells. Irregular trabeculae of woven immature bone are most consistently
rored in thse tumors. The treatment ofossifying fibroma is most often accomplished by sur-
gical removal utilizing curettage or enucleation. Recurrence is uncommon.
. Odontomas
. Osteomas
. Adenocarcinoma
. Epidermoid cysts
. GI polyposis
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A l0-year-old boy comes with ber mother to the dental office because of a
painless swelling ofhis maxilla. Radiographic exam reveals an irregularly
shaped radiopoque mass with a ground glass appearance. No other bulges
have been noted by the mother. A biopsy reveals fibrous tissue in the bone.
What is the most likely diagnosis?
. Albright's syndrome
. Jaffe syndrome
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Gardner's syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder and is characterized by intestinal
polyposis, multiple osteomas, fibromas ofthe skin, epidermal and trichilemrnal cysts, im-
pacted pemanent and supernumerary teeth, and odontomas. The most serious complica-
tion of Gardner's syndrome is the multiple polyps that affect the large intestine. The
inevitable outcome ofthis disease is invasive colorectal ancr.
Clinical features:
. Onset early puberty
. Polyps ofthe colon ultimately change into adenocarcinoma by the fourth decade of
life
. Abnormality ofthe retina ofthe eye
. Development olmultiple epidermal cysts usually on face, scalp, and extremities
Remember: Multiple impacted and supemumerary teeth are also seen in Cleidocranial
dl splasia.
Fibrous dysplasia is an idiopathic condition in which normal medulJary bone is gradually rcplaccd by
an abnormal fiborus connective tissue prolifcration. The mesenchymal tissuc contains \ arllng amounts
ofosleoid and osseous mateial that presumably arises through metaplasia.
Thc discase most commonly presents as an asymptomatic. slo$' enlargcmcnt of the involved
bone. I! may jnvolve one bone or scvcral bones concomitantly.
. \Ionostotic fibrous dysplasia: is the most common, comprising 707o of cases. There is an equal
male to female ratio, and this form is the most likcly to quiesce at puberty. A typical monostotic les-
ion Nill involve the fcmur, tibia or ribs, with 2570 occu.ring in the bones ofthe skull flle mdiil/a r.r
.atnnnlv involved). A panorex will show a radiopaque mass with inegular bordcrs that has a "ground
glass" appearance. See picture #,19 in booklet
. Poltostotic fibrous dysplasia applies to cases in which more than one bone exhibits evidence ofthe
disLrrder. It is rclatively uncommon; horlcver, many patients have lesions of the skull, facial boncs,
or ii\\ s. as a component ofthe condition. Note: Alkaline phosphatase may be elevated in up to 307o
oipalicnts $ ith polyostotic fibrous dysplasia, and a dramatic risc may herald malignant degeneration.
Cal.rum and phosphorus tcnd to be normal.
Important: Fibrous dysplasia has a variable radiographic appearance that ranges from a radiolucent le-
sron to a densely radiopaquc mass. The classic ptesentation has been describcd as radiopaque with nu-
merc'us bony nabeculae imparting a "ground-glasss" appearance. An important distinguishing feature
L)ifibrous dysplasia is the poorly delined radiographic and clinical margins ofthe lesion The process
iecms lo blend into the surrounding normal bone without cvidence of a circumscribcd border.
\lalignant degeneration occurs in less than l7o ofcases offibrous dysplasia. Malignancies are almost ex-
ciusi\,ely osleosarcoma. For unknown reasons, monostotic and craniofacial Iesions have the greatest po-
tential formalignant dcgeneration, and radiation therapy has been found to incrcase the risk by 400-fold.
\ote: The differential diagnosis of fibrous dysplasia of the jaws includes the ossilying fibroma, how-
eyer, radiographically thc ossifying fibroma has a well-circumscribed appearsnce.
Remember: N{cCunc-Albright syndrome is a designation that has bccn applied to patients with polyos-
totic fibrous dysplasia, cutaneous melanotic pigmcntation fcate .r lait macules), and endocrine abnor-
rnaTlties (rnost cotwtronly precocious sexual devlopuent in.lbmales).
ORAL PATHOLOGY Odont Cyst
A new patient walks into your oflice. Your initial physical assessment reveals
that his eyes are set wide and that he has multiple lesions of the skin. When
shaking his hand, you notice that the skin ofhis palm is very thick and has
palmer pitting. When doing a health history, he reveals that he sees a
neurologist and that he has some calci{ied structures "in his brain."
A panoramic radiograph may likely reveal:
. Osteomas
. Odontogenic keratocysts
. Odontomas
. Dentigerous cysts
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A mother brings her 2-year-old boy into the dental oflice because of a "swelling"
on his alveolar ridge. Your exam reveals a smooth-surfaced bluish lesion with
fluctuance where tooth #K will be erupting. The most likely diagnosis ofthis is:
. Dentigerous cyst
. Eruption cyst
. Hematoma
. Hemangioma
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This patient has nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, which is an autosomal domi-
nant disorder characterized by oral, systemic and skeletal anomalies. It is an inherited
group ofdefects which involve abnormalities ofthe skin, eyes, nelvous system, endocrine,
glands and bones. The condition is characterized by an unusual facial appearance and a
predisposition for skin cancer. It is also krown as the basal cell nevus-bifed rib syndrome,
the basal cell nevus syndrome and the Gorlin and Goltz syndrome. Note: Recently, mu-
tations in the human homologue ofDrosophila patched fPICIl), a tumor suppressor gene
were identified as the underlying genetic event in this syndrome.
Possible abnormalities include:
. Cutaneous anomalies: including multiple basal cell carcinomas, other benign der-
mal cysts and tumors, palmer pitting, palmer and planlar keratosis and dennal calcino-
sis.
. Dntaf and osseous anomalies: including odontogenic keratocysts (o.ften multiple)
mild n.randibular prognathism, rib anomalies (often bifid), and venebral anomalies.
. Ophrhalmologic abnormalities: including hypertelorism with wide nasal bridge an
congenital blindness.
. Neurologic anomalies: including mental retardation, dural calcification, agenesis of
corpus callosum and congenital hy&ocephalus.
. Sexual abnormalities: including hypogonadism in males and ovarian tumors in fe-
males.
Radiographic features:
. Calcification ofthe falx cerebri
. Presence of odontogenic keratocysts
An eruption cyst is essentially a soft tissue variant ofthe dentigerous cyst. It is invariably
associated with an erupting tooth (asaa lly prim^ry but o(casionally a permanent tooth).
The effects are mostly limited to the overlying gingival tissues rather than bone.
\o treatment is necessary as the cyst often ruptures spontaneously. In a few rare cases,
incision or even the removal ofthe overlying tissue may be necessitated by pain or ten-
demess associated with lhe lesion.
Odont Cvst
. Dentigerous cyst
. Primordial cyst
. Residual cyst
A healthy l9-year-old patient presents to your olTice for a routine exam. Taking
a panoramic radiograph, you see a well-corticated, unilocular radiolucency
surrounding the crown of impacted tooth #17. The lesion is asymptomatic.
What is the most likely diagnosis?
. OKC
. Dentigerous cyst
. Cystic ameloblastoma
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Remember: This cyst may be completely devoid ofsolid or liquid material. lt occurc most fre-
quently in younger persons rlith no sex predilection. The usual location is in the mandible bc-
tween the canine and ramus. The regional teeth are vital.
Clinical features:
. Children and adolescents. usually belbre the age of20
. Usually asynlptomatic
. Prinarily seen in mandiblc
. Slight ilun) conieal bonc crpansion
. Associated with vital teeth, no displaced teeth
The dentigerous cyst (or lbllicular c.vst) contains a crown ofan unerupted tooth or denlal anonr-
alv such as an odontoma. Enlarged dentigerous cysls can cause Drarked displaccmcnt oftccth. Prcs-
sure of accumulatcd fluid usually displaces the tooth in an apical direction.
See picture #50 in booklet
The primordial cyst diflers from the periodontal and dentigerous cysts in that it conlains no cal-
crlied structures. These cysts are lined by stratified squanous epithelium and may be either uniloc-
ular. multilocular or multiple.
The residual cyst rcl'ers to a situation in which a tooth associated with a radicular cyst is cxtractcd
but the c)st is lcft undisturbed, it persists within thejaw and this lcsion is called a residual cyst.
\ote: \bu must curette the socket ofa tooth with a radicular cyst aftcr extraction. See pictures #
86 and #87 in booklet
Ihe st^Ine (stqtic) bone defect is radiolucency ofthe mandible due to invagination ofthc lingual
.urlace of the of the jaw. lt is locatcd in thc posterior mandible below the mandibular canal.
\ote: Thc focal osteoporotic bone marrow defect is a radiolucency in the jaw that conlains
henratopoietic bonc marrow. 11 is olten seen in an extraction site.
Clinical features:
.lt usually contains a crown ofan unerupted tooth
. Usually not clinically visible rvithout radiographs
. .\\\ nrptomalic, occasionally pain or swclling
. Lsually involve uneruptcd mandibular third molars. olher frequenl sites includc ma\illary canines.
marillary third molars and mandibular second premolars
Rrdiographic feature: \\'ell-circumscribed, unilocular radiolucency around crown ol'looth. See picture
=50 in booklet
Remember:
I The lateral periodontal cyst may bc dcfincd as a non-kciatinized, non-inflammatory dc-
\ clopmcntal cyst occurring adjacent o. lateral to thc root ofa tooth. See picture #91 in booklet
:. The fissural cysts ltthich are also called developmental .,l.irtr) are non-dental in oiigin, thcy in-
clude nasoah colar. median palatal, and nasopalatine cysis.
Comrnonly found in young persons, in the mandible between the caninc and ramus.
The residual cyst is often found in edentulous areas. This cyst refers to a situation in which a tooth
* ith a radicuiar cyst associated with it was extracted. and the socket wasn't curelted. The radicu-
lar clst persists in thejaw as a residual cyst.
The gingival cyst ofthe newborn has also been designaled as the dental lamina cyst ofthe new-
born or Bohn's noduels. Such cysts appear typically as multiple nodulcs along the alveolar ridge
in neonales. They are due to cystification ofrcsts ofthe dcntal lamina. In the vast majority ofcascs.
these cvsts degeneratc and involute or rupture into the oral cavity. Note: Similar epithelial inclu-
sional cysts may occur along the midline ofthe palate fpala/i/te q'sts ofthe nerborn or Epstein's
2earl9. Thcse are ofdevelopmental origin but are not dcrivcd from odontogenic cpithelium. No
treatlnent is necessarv.
. Henwig's epithelial root sheath
. A pre-existing osteoma
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. Residual cyst
. Primordial cyst
. Periodontal cyst
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Keratocysts dillcr fiom olher odonlogenic cysts in their nricroscopic appearancc and clinical be-
havior They may resemblc periodontal, primordial or follicular cysts. Usually they cannot be dis-
tinguished radiographically. See picture #88 in booklet
Clinical features:
. Widc age range. peak occurrence in 2nd and 3rd decades
. [,csions found in children are often reflective of nrultiple odontogenic keratocysts as a com-
ponenl ol'the nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome
. More common in males than fcmalcs
. The chrefsite ofinvolvcmcnt is thc mandible, in approximatcly a 2 to 1 ratio
. In thc nrandiblc, most occur within the posterior portion ofthe body and rarnus rcgion
. Typically asymptomatic
Radiographic features:
. well-demarcated area ofradioluccncy with a sca)lopcd, radiopaqr,re margin
. Unilocular or multilocular
\licroscopicallyi
. The lininging epithclium is thin and parakcratinizcd
. The basal layer is palisadcd u,ith prominent, polarized, and intensely staining nuclei ofuniform
dramctcr
. The luurcn may contain large amounts ofkeratin debris or clear fluid similar to serum transu-
dalc
. The parakeratotic type forms 85 10 95% ofall odontogenic keratocysts; thc balance is made
op of the .'rthoker.ltinized vaiant. lmportant: The orthokeratinzed variant is less aggressive,
\\ ith a rnuch lorver rate ofrccurrence and is not syndrome-associatcd.
Important: The most remarkable feature of keratocysts is their great tendency toward recur-
rence.
A primordial cvst arises from cystic changes in a developing tooth bud before the for-
mation ofenamel and dentin matrix. Since the primordial cyst arises from a tooth bud, the
tooth \\'ill be missing from the dental arch unless the cyst arose from the tooth bud of a
supenrumerary tooth. The mandibular third and fourth molar regions are the most
common locations for a primordial cyst. lt is usually found in children and young adults
betri .-enl0 ard 30 years of age. Radiographically, the primordial cyst is a circular ra-
drtrlucencv * ith a radiopaque border and lound at the site where the tooth failed to de-
\elrrp. \lany investigators have reported that most prirrordial cysts have the same
aharacteristic l'eatures as those of odontogenic keratocysts. However, until conclusive
prtrtri is established, primordial cysts and odontogenic keratocysts are considered separate
iit trtles.
\\ h.n a tooth having a radicular cyst at its apex is extracted, the radicular cyst is left
behind in bone and is now called a residual cyst. A residual cyst can also rise from rem-
n3nts ofthe epithelial rests after tlre extraction ofa tooth. This cyst occurs in older indi-
r iduals. the average age is 50 years. The radiographic appearance is that of a circular
radiolucency sunounded by a radiopaque border and occurring in an edentulous area. A
residual cyst can easily be misdiagnosed as a primordial cyst. The latter arises in lieu of
a looth r\hereas a residual cyst arises in relation to an extracted tooth.
. Lateral periodontal cyst
. Dentigerous cyst
. Odontogenic keratocyst
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. Based on symptoms
. Radiographically
. Histologically
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Cyst Clinical Characteristics Radiogmphic Chrracteristics
Dendgerous . Children and teenagers . Well-defined usually
{follicular cyt) . Mandibular third molar and maxillary canine unilocular RL associated with
area 00%o) in nandible) the crown of !n unerupted
. Associated with impact or unerupted teeth tooth
. Sccond most common odontogenic cyst
\ote: This inflammatory cyst derives its epithelial lining from prolitbration of small odon-
rogenic epithelial residres (rest of Malcssez) within the periodontal ligament.
ORAL PATHOLOGY Odont T[rm
A 37-year-old patient comes into your office with the complaint of a slowly-
growing, painless swelling of his lower left jaw. A panoramic shows a
multilocular radiolucency with well delined and sclerotic margins along
the left mandibular molar-ramus area. All teeth test as vital. A triopsy is
conducted and shows odontogenic epithelium. What is the most likely
diagnosis for the most aggressive type of this turnor?
. Unicystic
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A 30-year-old patient coms into your oflice complaining ofa painless swelling
of his lower left jaw. A panoramic radiograph shows a welltircumscribed
multilocular radiolucency with a 'honeycombed" pattern at the location
ofthe lower left molars. The teeth have been displaced. The pathology
report calls this an odontogenic mlroma, This tumor:
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Ameloblastoma consisrs entirely ofodontogenic epithelium, which at sites shows the differentia-
tion ofthc familiar, histologic layers ofthe enamel org.n. It is most often seen in the mandibular
molar-ramus area. Clinically, it is the most aggressive odontogenic tumor. Important: The ameloblas-
toma is the most common epithelial odontogenic tumor.
Clinical features:
. No sex or racial predilection
. Mean age is commonly between 35 and 45 years
. 2 biologic-microscopic subtypes:
I ) Solid or multicystic: is more aggressive and high recunencc rate if treatcd consen'ativcly.
2) Unicystic: is less aggessive and less likely to recu. A histologic variant ofthis type is the plex-
iform unicystic ameloblastoma.
. Slow growing and painlcss swclling
. Locally aggrcssivc
. Capable ofcausing large facial deformities
. Teeth are vital
\oter Rarely, extraosseous peripheral ameloblastomas arc found in tlre gingiva and buccal mucosa.
The) exhibit a benign non-aggressive course.
Radiographic characteristics: Multilocular or unilocular radioluccncy with well defincd and slerotic
margins. Notei In the mandible it appears similar to thc central giant cell granulona. See picture #51
in booklet
Treatment: Each casc should be considered on its own basis. The solid hnullicristic or polvcl'stic) le-
.ion requires surgical excision. Rescction should be reserved for larger lesions. Unicystic Iesions usu
alh require only enucleation. Thcy should not bc ovcr trcatcd. Note: You nccd to know thc
.rmeloblastoma ertremely well for thc cxam!l!
\olei }lalignant behavior by amcloblastoma is rarely encountered. These lesions occur in a younger age
group (JOr/ and appcar in the mandible more frequently than the maxilla. Malignant lesions have been
ll\ rded into nvo subtvpes: the malignant ameloblastoma and ameloblastic carcinoma.
\ote: \\:hen relativelylarge amounts ofcollagen are evident, the term "myofibroma" is
used to designate the odontogenic myxoma.
Ihe central odontogenic fibroma is a rare lesion that is regarded as the central counter-
part to the peripheral odontogenic fibroma. It is seen in all age groups, and is found in both
rhe n.randible and maxilla. It appears as a well-defined radiolucent lesion that is usually
multilocular, often causing cortical expansion. It is treated with surgical excision and re-
currence is very uncommon.
. In the mandible than in the maxilla, and more often anterior than in the posterior
reglons
. In the maxilla than in the mandible. and more often Dosterior than in the anterior
regions
. In the maxilla than in the mandible, and more often anterior than in the posterior
regl0ns
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The cementoblastorna, also known as the true cementoma, is a rare benign neoplasm of
cementoblast origin. It occurs predominantly in the second and third decades, typically be-
fore 25 years ofage. It is more often seen in the mandible than in the maxilla, and more
often posterior than in the anterior regions. It is intimately associated with the root of a
tooth, and the tooth remains vital. It may cause cortical expansion and, occasionally, low-
grade intermittent pain. Radiographically, this is a well-circumscribed radiopaque lesion
that replaces the root ofthe tooth. It is usually surrounded by a radiolucent ring. Because
ofthe intimate association ofthis lesion with the tooth root, this lesion cannot be removed
without sacrificing the tooth. There is no recurrence.
Note: To distinguish this lesion from condensing osteitis in CO you can distinguish
the root outline. -
represents a reactlve
This lesion also known as periapical cemento-osseous dysplasta
lesion to be an unusual response of peri-
,uth". thun a neoplastic proiess. This appears
phenomenon that occurs aI
apical bone to some local factor This is a relatively common
affected more than are men'
the apex ofvital teeth. Women, especially black women' are
the anterior pe-
iiopp"urc in *iOat e age (around i0 ,earsl and the mandible' especially
often' the apices
riapical region, is farrnor" .o.-only uffected than is the maxilla
More
the teeth are vital' As the
of trvo or r.riore teeth are affected. There are no symptoms and
a mixed or mottled pat-
condition progresses or matures, the lucent lesion develops into
i"* ,. i"t. repair The final stage appears as a solid opaque mass often surrounded
by a "ttl.g
thin iucent ring. No treatment is required for this condition'
\ote: A rare condition called florid osseous dys plasit (FoD) appears to be an exuber-
ant fonrl ofperiapical cemental dysplasia'
the age of 40 There are
The cementiffing fibroma occurs chiefly in adults around
The Iesion may cause tooth
fr.iii".tio* ior ine uody of the mandible antl for females'
it is well-circumscribed and may ap-
rr.ro. ement or cortical expansion. Radiographically,
pea, ..tatively radiolucent, lucent with opaque foci, or diffusely opaque
lt is treated with
can be considered sim-
cu..etag. o. e^cirion. Recurrence is very rare Note: This lesion
ilar or identical to the ossifying fibroma'
. TuberosibT area
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\
Th smeloblrstic libromr and ameloblastic librordontoma eppeer to be
variations of tbe same process. These neoplasms occur predominantly in:
s-,
.113
E\cept for the presence of an odontoma, the 1wo lesions are tlte same. The mean age is
lround 12 years, and the upper age limit rnay extend as high as 40 years. The mandibu-
iar molar-ramus area is the favored location for the two lesions. Radiographically, these
lesions are rvell circumscribed and are usually surounded by a sclerotic margin. They
mal be either unilocular or multilocular and may be associated wiih the crown of an im-
pacred toofi. Important: An opaque focus appears within the ameloblastic fibro-odon-
tona o\\ ing to the presence ofan odontoma. This lesion therefore presents as a cornbined
lucent-opaque lesion; the ameloblastic fibroma is completely lucent radiographically.
\ote: These lesions are treated conservatively by curettage or excision. Recurrence is
rare.
The other tumor of mixed, (epithelial and mesenchynal) origin is the odontoma. These
;alcilied iesions take one or two general configurations. They may appear as multiple
miniature or rudimentary teeth, in which case they are known as compound odon-
tomas, or they may appear as amorphous conglomerations of hard tissue, in which
case thel are known as complex odontomas. As a group they are the most common odon-
togenic tumors.
How would you refer to the group of small radiopacities between the
rnandibular canine and first premolar on the periapical x-ray below?
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ORAL PATHOLOGY
. Do nothing (obserue)
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Radiogrxphic \{icroscopic Treatment
Tumoa Clinical l'eatures Charactedslics Characteristics aud Prcgnosis
Complex Children and young adultsi Amorphous opaque Nomlal appealng Enuclealion;
tendency to occur in the masses iYpically in a enamel. dcntin. ce-
posreriofja\r's tooth-beanng ara, be- mentum. and pulp
tween roots or over tne may be sccn.
impacted tooth
Compound Children and young adults; Multiple small tooth- Normal-appearing Enucleation;
tendency to occur in thc llke structures enamcl. dentin. docs not rccur
anteriorjaws typically in a tooth- cementum. and PulP
bearing area, berween may bc seen.
roots or over the qown
ofan impacted tooth
Remember: A compound odontoma looks like a tooth, and a complex odontoma does
not lit is a disorganized arrangement oJ tubular dentin, enqnrel' and thin la1'ers of ce-
nemunl. See picture #52 in booklet for picture ofcomplex odontoma
l.'ote: A rare variant knownas ameloblastic ondontoma has been described. This is es-
sentially an ameloblastoma in which there is focal differentiation into an odontoma.
Clinical features:
. Occurs at the apex ofvital teeth
. A pre dilection fbr middle-aged black women
. As] mptomatic, usually multiple, small periapical areas ofradiolucency in the mandibu-
lar incisorarea. See picture #53 in booklet
\ote: Depending on stage, it may appear mixed radiolucent and radiopaque or totally ra-
dropaque.
Important: Age. gender, Iocation, radiographic appearance, and tooth vitality consid-
ered together are diagnostic of this condition.
Three stages:
L Osteolytic stage; radiolucency appears on radiograph.
l. Cementoblastic stage: beginning of calcification in the radiolucent area (mixed ra-
diolucent and rqdiopaque appearance).
3. llature stage: radiopacity appears on radiograph with a thin radiolucent line around
area.
\ote: No treatment is required for cementomas. Once this stage is reached, the lesion sta-
bilizes and causes no complications.
. ORALPATHOLOGY PigLesofOralCav
A S-year-old boy presents with his mother for his lirst dental exam.
Your exam reveals a normally developing dentition but you notice
multiple "freckles" on his lower lip and on the buccal mucosa.
What condition should vou be concerned about?
. Gorlin-goltz syndrome
. Gardner's syndrome
. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
. Cleidocranial dysplasia
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Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (also called hereditat! itesti al polyposis syndrome) is an unusual
condition which is ofinterest to the dentist because of the oral findings. The pigmentations
usually appear at an early age, often during the first decade of life and at this time are re-
stricted to the oral region. Intraorally, these pigmentations may be located anywhere on the
mucosa, but are most frequently seen on the buccd mucosa, gingiva and hard palate. The
mucosal surlace ofthe lower lip is almost invariably involved. These spots or macules, while
of variable intensity. may mnge through shades of brown, blue and black. During the suc-
ceeding decades of the patient's life, pigmentations may arise elsewhere on the skin, espe-
cially on the extremities. In addition, intestinal polyposis is seen, most commonly in the
small intestine (jejunum) and may produce signs and symptoms of abdominal pain, rectal
bleeding, and diarrhea. It should be noted that the pigmentations ofPeutz-Jeghers syn-
drome may occur without demonstrable evidence of polyps and, also that multiple pollps
may be encountered without pigmentations. See picture #35 in booklet
Important: It is significant to note that although the oral pigmentations per se are harm-
less. their presence is important in that they indicate a necessity for investigating the pos-
sible presence of multiple polyposis which may prove harmful. There is a strong tendency
for these multiple polyps of the colon to undergo malignant chang.
\ote: It appears to be caused by a mutation ofa gene known as LKBI ofchromosome
I 9 that encodes a multifunctional serine-threonine kinase.
.\n amalgam trttoo is the most common oral pigmented lcsion The tattoo has been mistaken for a
mclanin-pigmented lesion. The most common looations for amalgam tattoos are the gingiva. buccal mu-
cosa and alveolar mucosa,
. Tongue
. Hard palate
. Alveolar mucosa
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. Addison's disease
. Albright's syndrome
. Cushing's syndrome
. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
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Moles (nevi) are small, usually dark, skin growths that develop frotn pigmenlproducing
cells in the skin (called melanocltes). While nevi are fairly common on the skin, intrao-
rally they are quite uncommon. When present, they are usually on the hard palate, but
can also be seen on the gingiva and lips. Congenital nevi (commonlt knou,r as birth-
marks) are usually large (greqter thqn I 0 cm) and with the passage of time, may change
ftom flat, pale tan macules to elevated, vemrcous, hairy lesions. Approximately 150/o occur
on the skin ofthe head and neck. Congenital nevi have a higher incidence of malignant
transformation (as opposed to acquiretl nevi).
5.Intradermal nevus: is the most common lesion of skin. known as the common mole
\ot: Acquired nevi are much more common than congenital nevi both intraorally and
ertraorally.
Important: The B-K mole syndrome and the dysplastic nevus syndrome are both char-
acterized by having numerous large, pigrrented atypical nevi which have a high risk for
der eloping malignant melanoma.
Addison's disease (qlso called chronic adrcnocortical itsuflicienq,) results from hypofunc-
tion ofthe adrenal cortex. lt is chamcterized by bronzing ofthe entire skin. Oral signs consist
of diffuse pigmentation ofthe gingiva, tongue, hard palate and buccal mucosa. Although cu-
raneous pigmentation will most likely disappear following therapy, pigmentation ofthe oral
tissues tends to persist.
. Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
. Cushing's syndrome
. Addison's disease
. Albright's syndrome
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. Radiation is required
. No treatment is necessary
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Addison's disease occurs when the adrenal glands do not produce enough cortisol /a g/ri-
cocorticoid). Cortisol's most important function is to help the body respond to stress. The
failure to produce adequate levels ofcortisol can occur for different reasons. The problcm
may be due to a disorder ofthe adrenal glands themselves (prinary adrcnal irrsulJiciencv)
or to inadequate secretion ofACTH by the pituitary gland f.secondary adrcnal insullicienc,").
The symptoms ofAddison's disease usually begin gradually.
These include:
. Muscle weakness
. Loss ofappctitc
. Weight loss
. Skin changes with areas of hyperpigmentation covering cxposed and nonexposed
parts ofthe body. This darkcning ofthc skin is most visiblc on scars, skin folds, pressure
points such as elbows, knccs, knucklcs, and tocs as wcll as thc oral mucous membranes
is diffuse pigmentation ofthe gingiva, tongue, hard palate. and buccal mucosa.
-there
. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
. Low blood pressure
*** Clinical features do not begin to appear until at least 9070 of glandular tissuc has
been destroyed.
Laboratory tests show:
. Lou'blood concentrations ofsodium and glucose
. Increased serum potassium
. Dccreascd urinary output ofcertain steroids
Important: The main concern when performing dental procedurcs on a patient with Ad-
djson's diseasc is that the adrenal cortex has no capacity to put out cxtra cortisol as a re-
sponse to strcss.
. Compound nevus
. Junctional news
. Blue news
. Intramucosal nevus
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Most pigmented skin tumors are composed of ner.us cells and are a result of a develop-
mental anomaly ofmelanocytes; they are rare in the oral cavity. The initial, flat, raised
lesion can become nodular, with an increase in consistency. Spontaneous involution may
occur and malignant transformation is a rare complication. When found intraorally they
most frequently occur on the hard palate (See picture #58 in booklet) but can also be
seen on the gingiva and lips. lntramucosal nevi are the most common variety found in the
oral cavity followed by blue nevi. Compound and junctional nevi are very rare.
Subtypes of Acquired Nevi:
.Intradermal nevus: most common lesion olskin. Known as the common mole.
Nevus cells lie exclusively within the dermis. See picture #57 in booklet
. Junctional nevus: nevus cells are located at the inteface between the epithelium and
lamina propria. They are flat and not detected by palpation. Some regard as premal-
ignant, may undergo transformation into malignant melanoma.
See picture #59 in booklet
. Compound nevus: nevus cells are located at the epithelium/lamina propria interface
and also deep in the dermis. They are raised and solid. See picture #60 in booklet
. Blue nevus: congenital, painless; color based on the deep cutaneous or subcutaneous/
submucosal deposits of melanin. See picture #56 in booklet
. Intramucosal nevus: nevus cells are located in the connective tissue or lamina pro-
pria ofthe oral mucosa. Under palpation these nevi appear solid and are slightly raised
or er the surface ofthe mucosa.
Important: Ifa pigmented lesion shows ulceration, an increase in size, darkening in color,
erc.. a biopsy should be performed--+his may indicate transfomation into a malignant
melanoma.
The traumatic bone cyst is an asymptomatic intmosseous empty cavity ofyoung patients located
p:imanll' *,ithin the mandible, lined by a thin loose connective tissue membrane.
TrarLmalic bone cysts are non-cysts fre/ened lo as pseudocysts) and have many names, which
include the simple bone cyst, hemorrhagic bone cyst, unicameral bone cyst, extravasation
t'one cyst. idiopathic bone cyst and solitary bone cyst.
Clinical features:
. Children and adolescents, usually before the age of20
. \lore conmon in males
. Usually asymptomatic, may produce enlargement ofthejaw
. Conmonl,"- found in posterior mandible *** See picture #61 in booklet
. Regional teeth are vital teeth
The treatment of traumatic cysts is relatively easy. lt consists of opening the lsion, curettage
and closure. The resultant blood clot soon undergoes organization and the bone defect is soon re-
oarred.
\ote: This cyst is a closed compartment that has a connective tissue lining (iro epithelial lin-
ilg,r ofvaried thickness. It may contain blood, serosanguineous fluid, debris composed chiefly
ofa blood clot, or it may be completely devoid ofsolid rnaterial.
The following are also not true cysts are called "pseudocysts":
. Latent bone cyst -they
. Lingual mandibular concavity
. Aneurysmal bone cyst
ORAL PATHOLOGY Pseudocyst
. Most aneurysmal bone cysts occur in patients under 20 years of age, and it is uncom-
mon after the age ol30
. The lesions are usually tender or painiul, particularly upon motion ofthe bone affected
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. Lymphangioma
. Hemangioma
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Surgical curettage or excision is the treatment ofchoice, with little chance ofrecunence.
\ote: The differential diagnosis should include ameloblastoma, central giant cell granu-
loma and a central vascular lesion fthis can be ruled out uoon auscultation since a bruit
is often heard).
This entity was once thought to be a congenital abnormality related to the persistence of
the tuberculum impar, however, it is now believed that this condition is a permanent end
result of a chronic Candida albicans infection. Diabetics, immunosuppressed patients
and patients on long-term antibiotic therapy are more susceptible to this condition.
Median rhomboid glossitis usually presents as a smooth, denuded, beef,, red lesion de-
void offiliform papillae. The most common location is the midline ofthe dorsum ofthe
tongue, just anterior to the circumvallate papillae. It is generally asymptomatic. Generally
no treatment is necessary, however, topical or systemic antif,rngal drugs to manage the pre-
disposing factors may be helpful.
. Teenagers
. Post-menopausal women
. Middle-aged males
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. Wegener's granulomatosis
. Rendu-Osler-Weber
. Sturge-Weber
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Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a relatively common condition that is characterized by
a complaint of an abnormal sensation of the lining of the mouth that most patients de-
scribe as feeling like their mouth has been scalded. Usually this sensation develops in the
ftont part of the mouth, typically affecting the inner surfaces of the lips, the roof of the
mouth and the sides and tip of the tongue. In some patients, only the tongue will be af-
fected, however, any combination ofthese sites may be seen. Some patients may have a
decreased taste ability or altered taste sensation (bitter or salt!). Other patients may feel
that their mouths are dry or sticky. In all cases, howeveq the lining of the mouth clini-
cally appears normal. Note: BMS is a "diagnosis of exclusion."
The etiology is unknown. There are a few common diseases that should be tested lbr, such
as anemia. diabetes and oral yeast infections. Buming mouth syndrome is diagnosed by
doing blood tests and cultures to make certain that one of the other problems mentioned
previously is not present. Ifthose tests are all negative, and ifthe lining ofthe mouth ap-
pears normal, then the diagnosis ofburning mouth syndrome is made.
Unfortunately, no one has developed a medically proven treatment for buming mouth
slndrome. For about halfofthe affected patients, the condition will resolve after a period
of tin.re. but no one can predict how long that will be for a particular individual. For the
most part. this problem is a nuisance, and it is a frustrating situation for both patients and
doctors. Note: Some individuals find relieffrom axiolytics, antidepressants, or low doses
ofcapsaicin, applied 3 or 4 times topically on the area(s) where the pain is localized. ap-
pear to be quickly effective in alleviating the pain in BMS.
. Leukoedema
. Psoriasis
. Erythroplakia
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The term "erythroplakia'r like the term "lerkoplakia" has no histologic connotation. It
is a clinical diagnosis. Almost all true erythroplakias exhibit a microscopic picture of
epithelial dysplasia, carcinoma in situ, or invasive squamous cell carcinoma.
\ote: Biopsy is mandatory.
Enthroplakias may be located anywhere in the mouth, but are most likely to be found in
rhe mandibular mucobuccal fold, oropharynx and floor of the mouth. There is no sex
predilection and patients over 60 years old are most commonly affected.
Pl ogenic granulomas may also occur on the lower lip, tongue and the buccal mucosa.
Thel rarel.v occur on other areas ofthe oral mucous membrane. It is generally believed
lhar rhe pyogenic granuloma arises as a result of some minor trauma to the tissues fce-
neutdtion of q crotvrt, calculus, etc,),which provides a pathway for the invasion olnon-
specitic t-vpes of microorganisms.
\ote: Pregnant patients are prone to these lesions (sorreliz es called "pregntncy tumor").
Peripheral giant cell granulomas are seen xclusively in:
. Buccal mucosa
. Alveolar mucosa
. Bone
. Gingiva
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ORAL PATHOLOGY
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The peripheral giant cell granuloma has an unknown etiology, with some dispute as to
whether this lesion represents a reactive or neoplastic process. However, most authorities
believe the peripheral giant cell granuloma is a reactiv lesion. Local irritation due to
dental plaque or calculus, periodontal disease, poor dental restorations, ill-fitting dental
appliances, or dental extractions has been suggested to contribute to the development of
the lesion. They are seen exclusively in the gingiva, usually in the area between the first
molars and the incisors. See picture #63 in booklet
Peripheral giant cell granulomas typically present as red to blue broad-based masses.
They usually bleed easily and may occur at any age and tend to be seen more frequently
in females than in males.
When this process occurs on the edentulous ridge, a superficial, cup-shaped radiolucency
may be seen. Histologic sections are diagnostic and are identical to those of a central
giant cell granuloma. The lesion is composed of a proliferation of spindled fibroblasts
in a stroma containing variable amounts ofcollagen. Multinucleated giant cells are pres-
ent throughout the connective tissue stroma. Conservative excision is typically curative,
although the lesion must be completely removed to prevent recurrence.
Hcmangiomas are benign vascular tumors composed ofcells that nonnally line the blood vessels
rentlothelial cells). They arc the most conmon tumor ofchildhood, occurring in up to l0% ofin-
1ants. Henangiomas may be visible at birth or may not be recognized until the first few weeks or
cr en months of lif'e. ln general, however, most hemangiomas becomc evident by 2 to 3 weeks 01'
age. -\lthough they comrnonly occur on the head or ncck (60%). they can occur in any region of
rhc bodl ). Some lesions are small and hardly visible, whereas others are large and rcadily obscrv-
:b1c'. \lost hemangiomas appear as single tumors, though l57o present with more than one lesion.
\otes hibit a rapid growth phase followed several years latcr by an involution phase; persist-
ent lesions are excised.
2. \'ascular malformation: a pcrsistcnt malfonnation of blood vessels; do not invo-
lutc; exhibits a thrill (palpate a pulse) andbrdt thear a pulse). A typc ofvascular nal-
lomation is known as Sturge-Weber disease (encephalotrigeminul angiomatosis)
w hich consists of a facial lcsion. known as the port-rvine stain, which is distributcd
over thc trigeminal nervc accompanied by a similar vascular disorder ofthe underlying
meninges and cerebral co ex. lt usually occurs unilaterally.
3. Remember: Rendu-Osler-weber syndrome, also known as hereditary henlorrhagic
telangiectasia, is a congenital hcreditary lbrm ofhemangioma. 11 is charactcrizcd by nu-
merous spider-like telangiectases on thc face, neck, chest. lips, gingiva, buccal mu-
cosa and tongue. One of the earliest signs of the disease is epistaxis (nosebleeds).
Arteriovenous listula, especially ofthe lungs and liver, are a variable component. Bleed-
ing from thc telangiectases may bc rcculrent, lil'e{hreatening and increase in sevcrity
rvith aging. The onsct oftcn is in childhood. Both sexes arc aflected equally.
4. lmportant: How to distinguish between a hemangionra and a hcmatoma
gioma will blanch on diascopy. hematomas do not blanch. -heman-
. Uncommon and represerfiz4yo ofhead and neck neoplasms
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. Lichen planus
. Necrotizing sialometaplasia
. Focal hyperkeratosis
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Salivary gland tumors may be broadly categorized into benign neoplasms, tumorJike condit-
ions, and malignant neoplasms. The glands are divided into major and minor salivary gland
categories. The major salivary glands are the parotid, the submandibular. and the sublingual
glands. The minor glands are dispersed throughout the upper oral-digestive submucosa
(i.e., palate, lip, pha4nx, nasopharl,rrx, latynx, paraphatyngeal space).
Following biopsy and the establishment ofthe diagnosis, further treatment generally is not
recommended since healing usually occurs within 6-10 weeks.
. Measles
. Mumps
. Rubella
. Chicken pox
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Mumps is an acute viral illness. The mumps virus is a paramyxovirus in the same group
parainfluenza virus. The virus is acquired by respiratory droplets. It replicates in the
as the
nasopharynx and regional lymph nodes.
Important: Mr.rmps is the most frequent diagnosis of acute viral sialadenitis, mostly in
the parotid gland.
Clinical:
. 907o ofthe cases occur before l4 years of age
. A major sign is sudden salivary gland swelling without purulent discharge from the
duct
*** Parotid involvement and bilateral in two-thirds of the cases.
-90o%and anorexia
. \4iltl ferer. malaise
. Most cases are self-limiting
Complications:
. Orchitis (inflqmmation of the testis) and epididymitis can occur in post-pubertal
males. *** Important: May cause sterility
. CNS systeln rneningitis and encephalitis
. Dealness. myocarditis, pancreatitis, oophoritis and pyelonephritis
The serum amylase may be elevated during the acute phase. Prevention with a live
attenuated vaccine is 95% effective for at least five years. However, in non-inoculated
indir iduals, it is still a cause ofacute non-suppurative saliyary adenitis.
The stafne bone cavity or cyst is a developmental anomaly represented by a bone con-
car itl usually containing submandibular gland tissue. The posterior mandible region,
pafiicularly at the angle and below the mandibular canal is the most common location. The
sraric bone cyst is usually discovered incidentally on dental radiographs. It is asympto-
matic and is not a true cyst. rather an anatomic depression in the lingual aspect of the
bodl of the mandible where normal salivary gland tissue rests. The radiographs show a
small, circular, corticated radiolucency below the level of the mandibular canal. His-
tologicalll', nonr.ral submandibular salivary gland tissue is found and no treatment is re-
quired except routine radiographic follow-up. Note: Many other terms have been used to
describe this entity, including submandibular salivary gland depression, lingual salivary
eland deoression. and Stafne bone cvst.
. Sjogren's syndrome
. Mikulicz's disease
. Gorlin-Goltz syndrome
. Pierre-robin syndrome
. Apert syndrorne
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A 33-year-old patient comes into your office for a routine maintenance appt.
While doing an intraoral exam, the hygienist discovers a bluish lesion ofthe
lower lip. The patient relates a history of biting this area last week whn
he had a sinus infection. What is the most likely diagnosis ofthis lesion?
. Ranula
. lnfectious sialadenitis
. Mucocele
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The term "benign lvmphoepithelial lesion" (also called Mikulicz's disease) is mani-
fested essentially as a progressive, asymptomatic enlargement of the parotid and
submandibular glands. It is initially unilateral, but over time, it becomes bilateral. The
etiology is unknoun, however, there is increasing evidence that both Mikulicz's disease
and Sjogren's syndrome are both actually autoirnmune diseases in which the patient's
o\\ n salivaD gland tissue becomes anligenic.
The differential diagnosis ofchronic bilateral enlargement ofthe salivary glands as a re-
sult of benign lymphoepithelial lesion must be separated for similar findings seen in sar-
coidosis. lymphoma, gout. leukemia, diabetes mellitus, chronic alcohol abuse, and, rarely
hlpenension.
. Adenoid carcinoma
. A ranula
. A lymphangioma
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A patient comes to your ollice complaining of pain when eating and even
sometimes when thinking about food. Your intraoral exam reveals a small,
hard swelling in the floor ofthe mouth. A mandibular occlusal radiograph
shows a per-sized radiopacity with 'onion-skin" thickening lingual to the
right mandibular border. Name the likely diagnosis:
. Sialometaplasia
. Sialadenitis
. Sialolith
. Sialosis
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Ranula, is a clinical term that is used to designate a mucocele that occurs specifically in
the floor ofthe mouth (see picture below). Pathogenetically and microscopically, it may
represent either mucus extravasation phenomenon or mucus retention cyst. The ranula is
associated with the duct system ofthe sublingual salivary glands, and, less commonly, the
submandibular glands.
The ranula is usually caused by an obstruction produced by either a salivary stone or soft
organic substance. It usually presents as a painless, fluctuant, unilateral, soft tissue mass
in the floor ofthe mouth. It t)?ically has a bluish appearance that has been compared to
a frog's belly, hence the term "ranula."
A sialofith is a stone (salivary calculus) within a salivary gland or duct. The formation of
a sialolith is called sialolithiasis and occurs as a result of precipitation of calcium and
phosphate salts around a nidus ofmucous or bacterial debris. Sialoliths occur as single or
multiple stones and can cause swelling and pain. The pain is experienced during salivary
stimulation and is intensified at mealtimes.
The best radiographic projection for visualizing sialoliths in the submandibular duct and
gland is the standard mandibular occlusal view. Occasionally, sialoliths are seen inci-
dentally on periapical radiographs, in which case they may be misdiagnosed as os-
teosclerosis.
The rate of occurrence in submandibular gland and duct is much higher than in the
parotid or sublingual areas. This is thought to be due to the tenacity ofthe submandibu-
lar saliva and the long and irregular shape of the duct. See picture #64 in booklet
The treatnent ofchoice is almost invariably surgical extirpation ofthe sialolith. Stones
located in the glandular parench;.rna usually require removal ofthe gland as well.
Of the neoplasms rffecting the mNjor or minor
glands; the is the most common.
. Sebaceous adenoma
. Pleomorphic adenoma
. Ductal papilloma
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. Sarcoidosis
. Mikulicz's disease
. Sj<igren's syndrome
. Hypothyroidism
. Diabetes mellitus
. Malnutritior/Starvation
. Dehydration
There are many conditions associated with parotid gland enlargement, this may be unilateral
or bilateral.
. Sjtigren's syndrome: is an autoimmune disorder affecting lacrimal and salivary glands
\\ hich causes decreased moisture in glands. Dry mouth, tooth decay, mouth sores, enlarged
salir ary glands, sialoliths, and recunent salivary gland infections are possible symptoms.
The syndrome also et'fects moisture in the eyes, which might cause chronic eye infections,
comeal ulcers and vision loss.
. Sarcoidosis: unknown cause; believed to be alteration in cellular immune function and in-
\ ol\'ement of some allergen. Most often involves the lungs; can affect the parotid gland.
Granulomatous fmacrophage infiltates) inflammation causes organ nodularity and loss of
parenchyma. Note: Sarcoidosis is also characterized by distinctive laboratory abnormalities,
including hyperglobulinemia, an elevated serum angiotensin converting enzyme level and
hypercalcemia. Glucocorticoids remain the mainstay oftherapy when treatment is required.
although other anti-inflammatory agents are being used increasingly often.
. \\'arthin's tumor: also called papillary cystadenoma lymphomatosum
. Infections: for example, mumps, actinomycosis, tuberculosis
. Benign lymphoepithelial lesion: also called Mikuticz's disease
. l\4alnutdtion/Starvation
. Dehydration
. Cystic fibrosis and diabetes mellitus
\letabolic conditions associated with bilateral parotid gland enlargement include: chronic alco-
holism, dictary deficiencies, diabetes mcllitus, hypertcnsion, hyperlipidemia and Sjdgren's syn-
drome.
The lcinic cell crrcinoma is derived from serous acinsr cells
and is fouRd almost exclusively in the:
. Submandibular gland
. Parotid gland
. Sublingual gland
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. Mucoepidermoid carcinoma
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\cinic cell carcinoma is the second most common parotid malignancy and the second most conlmc\n
salivary gland ma\gnancy (nucoepidermoid carcinoma is lhe nost conmonlbr both). CrL,"
^:i:rlnc
appearance demonstrates a mass ihat is well-circumscribed but lacks a true caps[le. Microscopic ap-
pearance has been categorizcd as solid, microcystic, papillary cystic and follicular. Tumor cells are dark
staining and have granular or honeycomb cytoplasm. The surrounding sffoma often demonstrates a lym-
phoid infiltrate. Treatment of acinic cell carcinoma includcs surgical cxcision. This tumor is gcncrally
regarded as a low-grade malignancy.
Adenocarcinomas (NOS not olheheise specirted) ofthe salivary glands are rare but aggressive tu-
-
mors. About halfofthese trmors present in the parotid glands. Minor saiivary glands on the palate, lip
and tongue are the next most commonly affbctcd sitcs. Adenocarcinoma is different from other salivary
gland neoplasms in that as many as 2570 ofpatients will complain ofpain or facial weakness at pres-
entalion. Gross pathology reveals a firm mass with irregular bordcrs and infiltration into surroundin-e tis-
sue. It is generally a solid tumor wjthorit any cystic spaces- These malignancies can demonstrate a wide
range ofgrowth pattems and, for lhis rcason, can bc somewhat difficult to classily. However' all adc-
nocarcinomas have in common thc formalion ofglandular structures and they are described as grades
I. II or lll based upon thc degrcc of ccllular differcntiation. Grade I lesions havc wcll-formcd ductal
itruclures \\hile Grade III lesions have a more solid growth pattern with few glandular chamcteristics.
Bccausc thcsc are more aggressive tumors, treatment for adcnocarcinoma is more aggressive. Complete
local excision is the mainstay oftherapy.
\lalignant Mixed Tumor rcpresents thre separate entities that are histologically distinct; These in-
clude the:
. Carcinoma ex-mixed tumor ofthe three salivary ncoplasms. It occurs when
is the most oommon
ofa preexisting pleomorphic adenoma.
a carcinoma develops from the epithelial component
. Carcinosaacoma or true malignant mixed tumor: thc mctastatic lesions contain both the stromal
end epithelial elements. This is difl'erent from the carcinoma ex-mixed tumor in which only the ep-
'rl_alial clcmcnti are prc5cnt in mclaslasii.
. \Ietrstasizing mixed tumor refers to an otherwise benign acting pleomorphic adenoma that de-
r eloos metastatic deoosits oftumor
\tucoepidermoid carcinoma is the most common malignant salivary gland neoplasm in both minor and
rNaior glands. It devclops rnost commonly in thc major salivary glands, mosl oftcn the parotid (45-70'/o)
Tha sccond most common sitc ofoccurrence is the palate //8Zr). Thcse tumors grow slorvlY and pres-
lr:: as painless masses in most cases. Nlicroscopically, thcsc fumors are charactcrized by the presence
..: t\\ o populations ofcells the mucus cells and the epidermoid cells. the proponion of rvhich helps to
i3ine thc grade ofthc txmor. They arc uncncapsulated or poorly encapsulated and intlltrate srirround_
::r!lirsuefreelt.'High-grade"and"lowgradc"formsexisteachwithadifiercntprognosiskoodforloy'
!,ttti. poor.fot high-g^rrle/. Surgical cxcision is the ffeatment. See picture #67 in booklet
.\denoid clstic carcinoma /'1CC/ accounts for approximately 23% ofall salivary gland carcinomas. Ap-
p:o\iDrarcl) 50 to 709/0 occur in the minor salivary glands ofthe palate- In the maior salivary glands. the
prrotrd gland is nrost often affected. Microscopic appearance is described as cribriform, rubular or solid
Th. cribrifonn pattem is the most common and most easily rccognizable. It is often referred lo as the
_s\riss cheese" pattem. Tumor cells arc armnged in ncsts around cylindrical spaces that may contain a
nucrnous or hyalinized material. Cells lhat are arranged in layers and form ductal struclures character_
lzi rhc i.rbular pattem. Thc solid pattem contains sheets offumor cc]Js u'ith lo intent'ning spaces.
See picture #68 in booklet
.\CC is an unusual tumor It is slow-growing but relentless. It tcnds to be locally invasive and infiltrate
rhe 'iheaths" or coatings surrounding nerve fibers (per-lneurol spaces). ACC often rccuN years later at
ihe site \\here thc fumor firct arose or it mny metastasize. Unlike most carcinomas, it seldom metasta-
sizes to nearby lFnph nodcs but rather to distant sites. The lung is thc most common site ofmetastasis,
\\ rth rhc liver second. Bone metastases indicate a poor prognosis.
PofJmorphous low-grade adenocarcinom (PLGA) is the second most common malignancy in the
minor salivary glands and occurs most frequently in the palatc. lip and buccal mucosa. The microscopic
appearance ofthcsc tumors is what gjves them their name. Any ofa variety ofgrowth pattems (solid, tu'
hula4 trubecular, glandular tribriforn, cysti., can be seen within the same lcsion or among different le-
sions. PLCA displays a tendency for perinerual and perivascular invasion, howevcr it typically follows
an indolent course. Treatment consists ofconscrvativc yct complete local excision. Distant metastasis is
not common,
. Lupus Erythematosus
. Sarcoidosis
. Crohn's disease
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. Malignant
. Carcinoma in situ
. Benign
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Sjiigren's syndrome is a chronic lymphocyte-mediated autoimmune disorder aIi'ecting the lacrimal and sali-
vary glands as well as other organ systcms. Thc paticnts most commonly afTected arc post-mcnopausal women
who prescnt with dry eycs. dry mouth and, in about 50% of the cases, enlargemen! ofthe parotid and sub-
mandibular gl^nds bilarerally. Primary Sjdgren's syndrome consists ofxeroslomia and kcratoconjunctivilis
stcc (dry eres), and possibly salivary gland enlargement. Scondary Sjcjgren's syndrome has the same xe-
rostoma and keratoconjunctivilis sicca but is also associated with anothcr autoimmune disordr such as R-{,
SLE, etc. There is dense inflammatory infiltrate $ ith destruction of glandular tissue- Treatmenr is palliative.
Note: Biopsy ofthe labial or palatal salivary glands may bc helpful in establishing the diagnosis, along with
sialograms, salivarj" flow rate tests , the Schimer test ldeterniles \lrcther the e),e procluces enough tears to
*eep it moist) work. Important: Only halfofSjdgrcn paticnts have anti-SSA and/or anti-SSB /SJd-
grcn\ Svndronte^ndblood
A dnd B,) antibodies in their blood. Other tests which may be abnormal include the white
blood cell count //ot . total gamna globulin level /rr'll. blood C3 and C4 complemen! levels /hx C4l. sed-
imentation rate frigrl aud rheumatoid factor lporltlr?r.
Important: The decrease ir1 salivation may cause rampant caries reminiscent ofradiation cariqs.
Important: The histological f'eafures ofthe salivary gland lesions in both Sjitgren's syndrome and the "be-
nign l) m ph opithfial lesion" lalso calle.l Milrll.: 3 ./rs?.rr., are idcntical.
It is i
ponant to remenlber that malignant lymphomrs and "pseudolymphomas" (also cdlled at picdl be-
nign lvehoid h.r!)erpld.rld) develop in some patients who have been diagnosed *ith Sjcigren's syndrome. This
mandarcl clo$ follo$-up oflhe parienl!.
Lupus er]thematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that occurs in tivo forms:
. Discoid lupus erythem^tos\s (DLE)| is I chronic skin condiiion of sorcs with inflamrnation and scar-
ring fa\oring the facc, can, scalp, and/or oral mvcosl (i.e., buccdl nucosa. gingivd, rcr illion). Thcse lc-
iions delelop as a red, inflamed patch with a scaling ilnd crusty appearance. Oral lesions mimic erosive
fichen planus. Trcated with cortisone or other drldgs (i.e., Pldqucnil. Aralen, or Quinacrine).
. St stemic lupus erythematosus (SIrr: is a chronic inflammatory connectivc tissuc disorder that involvcs
muhiplc organs including the kidneys. heaft,joints, skin, mucous membranes, and blood vessel walls. Abut-
t.rll)-shapcd rash /ma1dr rdrrl on the t'ace that covers the cheeks and bridge ofthe nose is a c)assic sign-
\ole: \umercus autoantibodics direcled against nuclcar and cytoplasmic antigcns are fbund in SLE palients.
Oral lesions are generally similar to thosc secn in DLE. Scrologic rcsis (ANA [aubantibodie.\J test and LE
icll re-vr are Dositive in Datients with SLE.
.\pproximatel,v 8 out of l0 salivary tumors diagnosed are in a parotid gland. One in 10 diagnosed is in
l submandibular gland. Thc remaining l0% are diagnosed in othcr salivary glands. In gneral, glands
morc likcl! to show tumor growth are also glands least likcly to show malignant nrmor growlh Thus.
elihr.ugh tumors ofthe sublingual glands arc rarc, almost all ofthem are malignant. In contrast, only
rl.rlrt Iion ofparotid gland tumors are mahgnant.
Clinical leatures of malignant salivary gland tumors:
- Jlucosa is ulcerated - Firm - Painful - Nodulas - Fixed - Rapid growth
\lafignant Safivary Gl^ndTumors (b eflt)t
. \denoca rcinoma, N OS lnot olherv,ise specified), arc rare but aggressive tumors About half of
rh.se tumors present in the parotid glands. Adenocarcinoma is different fiom othcr salivary gland neo-
fla5ms in that as many as 259lo ofpaticnts rvill complain ofpain or frcial rreakness ai presentatlon.
' {denoid c!,stic carcinoma: approximateiy 50 to 7oyo occur in the minor salivary glands of the
talate. In the major salivary glands, the parotid gland is most often affected. Microscoplc appearance
is described as cribriform, tubular or solid. The cribriform pattern is the most common and most
carily recogrizable. It is often refened to as the "swiss cheese" pattem.
. \lucoepidermoid carcinoma: is the most common malignant salivary gland neoPlasm in both
minor and major glands. lt develops most commonly in the major salivary glands. nost otien the
patotid G5-70a.,'). Microscopically, these tumors arc characterized by the prescnce of two populations
ofcells thc mucns cells and the epidermoid cells, the proportion ofwhich helps to define lhe grade
of thc tumor
. Acinic cell carcinoma: Acinic cell carcinoma is the second most common parotid malignancy and
thc second most common pediatric salivary gland malignancy ih&coep[dermoid carcinona is lhe osl
t'onnnon lor hoth).This tumor is gcncrally regarded as a lort-grade malignancy.
.llalignant mixed tumors: represents three scparate entities that are histologically distinct; These
includc thc carcinoma ex-mixcd tumor, carcinosarcoma or true malignant mixed tulnor, and thc metas-
lasizing mixed tumor.
. Polymorphous low-grade adenocarciliotn (PLGA) is the second most common malignancy in
the minor salivary glands and occurs most frequently in the palate, lip and buccal mucosa. The mi-
croscopic appeamnce ofthesc tumors is what gives them their name.
ORAL PATHOLOGY
. Common; 50o/o
. Common; 75%
. Rare; 2%
. Rare; l5olo
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ORAL PATHOLOGY
. Pleomorphic adenoma
. Warthin's tumor
. Fibroadenoma
. Monomorphic adenoma
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The term "monomorphic adenoma" refcrs to a group ofrare salivary tumors that includes thc basal cell
adenomas, canalicular adenomas. scbaccous adenomas, myoepithcliomas and oncocytomas.
Oncocytomas arc rare tumors that constitute only 2% of benign epithelial salivary gland neoplasms
Thc majorjty ofthese tumors affcct lhc parottd gland 178%). The clinical prcscntation ofoncocyomas
is esscntially identical to other bcnign salivary tumors a slowly growing, nontender mass. typically
in the superficial lobe ofthe parotid. Microscopically, thcrc arc shccts, nests or cords ofuniform onco-
cytes.
Basal cell adenomas are also rare tumors that constitute only J'lo ofbcnign epithelial salivary gland !u-
mors and gpically occrrrs in the 6th decade oflife. It seems to occur morc frequently arnong Caucasians
than African Amcricans. The majority occur in the parotid gland where thcy present as a slowly cnlarg-
ing firm mass. They are well-encapsulated, smooth tumors on lross inspection and arc divided into four
subtypes based on their microscopic appearance solid, trabecular, tubular and membranous
Canalicular adenomas are also rarc ftrmors (1.596) that most commonly involve thc minor salivary
glands of the npper lip (74yu) or brc.al mrcosnl ( 12a;).It peaks in thc 7th decade of life and, like tlle
basal cell adcnoma, is morc common in whites than blacks Clinically it presents as a nonpainful sub-
mucosal nodule. On gross pathologic examination, canalicular adenomas may or may not possess a cap_
sulc and it is not unusual for therc to bc multifocal glowth. Microscopically there are cords ofsingle-layer
columnar or cuboidal cells forming duct-like structures in a background of fibrous stroma
Thc rarc m!oepithelioma accounts for less than one perccnt ofall salivary gland ncoplasms. Most arise
\! irhin the parotid gland and, less frequcntly, in the submandibular gland and intraoral minor salivary
glands. Three paftems ofmicroscopic appearance have been describcd. The spindle cell pattern is the
mosl common ovcrall and is typical for parotid myoepitheliomas. The plasmacytoid pattern is less
common but the most frequently encountered pattern in palate nlmors. Tle third pattern demonstrates
3 combination ofthc spindle and plasmacytoid cells and is uncommon.
\ot: Sialoscintigraphy is a simplc and non-invasive procedurc that can usually scparate benign enti-
rreslike \\'arthin's tumor and oncocytoma ofthe salivary glands from maligrant tumors, and signifi-
aanrlv affcct the course oftrcatment.
Clinical features: The vast majofity ofpatients are over 50 years ofage, with a 5:l male pre-
dc'minance. Approximately l0To to l5Yo of the tumors are bilateral. The tumor most often
arises in the lorver pole ofthe parotid and presents clinically as a non-tender' slowly enlarg-
ing. flmr to fluctuant nodule oyer the angle or ramus ofthe mandible.
Histologic features: The tumor is encapsulated and co[tposed ofcystic spaces containing an
.r)sinophilic coagulum into which extend papillary projections of the lining epithelium. The
epithelium consists ofa double row ofcells with eosinophilic, granular cytoplasm, a luminal
lay er oftall columnar cells and a basal layer ofround, cuboidal or polygonal cells. lnterspersed
among the cystic spaces are aggregates of lymphoid tissue, some with germinal centers.
Treatment and prognosis: Surgery is the treatment ofchoice and recurrence is uncommon.
\lalignant vadants ofthe tumor have been reported but are mre.
\ote: Pleomorphic adenomas are the most common parotid tumor lt grows slowly and is
benign. A pleomorphic adenoma begins as a painless lump at the back ofthe jaw just below
rhe earlobe. These are more common in women.
A 40-year-old female presented with a subcutaneous nodule on
the right latcral surface of her tong\e (afiort is poinrtng tu lesion).
The nodule was non-tender, soft, movable and had been slowly
growing for about 2 years. The nodule was excised. Its eut surface
was yellow and lobulated. What is the clinical signilicance ofthe
nodule being movable and slowly growing?
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CopriSlrr O 20ll ?01? Denral Decks
ORAL PATHOLOGY
. Teratoma
. Choristoma
. Hamartoma
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Gcncral charactcristics of benign neoplasms:
. Well-diffcrcntiated
. Slow growth
. EncapsulatedAVell circumscribcd
. Localized
Important:
. Paresthesia is suggestiv of metastatic disease
. Metastasis is the most important characteristic that distinguishcs malignancy from ben-
ign
. Hwerplastic
. Araplastic
. Dysplastic
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Lack of differentiation, or anaplasia, is considered a hallmark of malignant transfor-
mation. It is marked by a number ofmorphologic and functional changes. Both the cells
and the nuclei characteristically display pleomorphisrn variation in size and shape.
Characteristically the nuclei contain an abundance of DNA and are extremely dark stain-
ing (hyperchromatlc). The nuclei are disproportionately large for the cell, and the nu-
clar-cytoplasmic ratio may approach I :l instead of the normal 1 :4 or 1 :6. The nuclear
shape is usually extremely variable, and the chromatin is often coarsely clumped and dis-
tributed along the nuclear membrane. Large nucleoli are usually present in these nuclei.
- Grade l. Well-differentiated
- Grade 2. Moderately well-differentiated
- Grade 3. Poorly undifferentiated
Grade 4. Undifferentiated
.Applicable mainly to squamous cell carcinomas. Most pathologist use three grades and
prefer to designate squamous cell carcinomas as well differentiated, moderately well-dif-
ferenriared or Doorlv differenliarea.
\Ietaplasia is the process whereby one cell type changes to another cell ty?e in response
to stress and generally assists the host to adapt to the stress. The most common type of
epithelial rnetaplasia involves rplacement of columnar cells by stratified squamous ep-
ithelium.
Dlspfastic cells exhibit considerable pleomorphism (vqriation in size and shape) and often
possess deeply stained (hyperchromatic) nuclei, which are abnonnally large for the size ofthe
cell. It is associated with chronic irritation ofa tissue by a chernical agent, such as cigarehe
smoke or by chronic inflammatory irritation, such as chronic cervicitis. The tissue appears
some\\ hat structureless and disorganized and may consist ofatypical cells without invasion.
Epithelium exhibits acanthosis 6rrr.ll r-t an abnorual thickening ofprickle cell layer).
Important: When dysplastic changes are marked and involve the entire thickness ofthe ep-
irhelium. the lesion is considered a pre-invasive neoplasm and is refened to as carcinoma in
sttu.
*** \{ild to moderate changes that do not involve the entire thickness ofepithelium may be
relersible, and with removal of the putative inciting causes, the epithelium may revert to
normal
Histologic features of malignancy:
. Anaplasia . Hyperchromatism ' Pleomorphism ' Abnormal mitosis
The host response to a malignancy is best reflected by lymphocytic infiltration at the edge of
a tumor The most characteristic feature ofa malignancy as opposed to an inflammatory Ie-
sion is that a malignancy will grow after removal ofthe causative agent. The most impor-
tant characteristic ofmalignant neoplasms, which distinguishes them from benign neoplaslns,
is their abilitv to metastasiz.
. Recurrent apthous minor
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. Stomatitis
. Genital lesions
. Maculopapular rash
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Copyrighr O 20lt 2012, DentalDecks
*** Recunent aphthous ulcers are commonly referred to as "canker sores" by 1ay persons- In the liter-
afure othcr terms include aphthous stomatitis, rccurrent aphthous stomatitis, rccurrent ulcerative stom-
atitis or ulcerative stomatitis.
Three classifications:
1. Recurrent aphthous minor: 807o occur on non-keratinized movable mucosa. See picture #92 in
booklet
2. Rccurrcnt aphthous major: heal often with scarring, more common in HIV patients. occur on the
soft palate, tonsillar fauces, labial and buccal mucosa, and tongue. See picture #93 in booklet
3. Recurrent herpetiform: occur in up to 100 at a time, occur on any mucosal surface, heal without
scarring. See picture #94 in booklet
*** All three classifications present painful recurrent ulcers.
Importanti Vcsiclcs do not precede the formation ofthese painful recurrent ulcers. They appear on wet
tnot |ennilion) nonkeratinizcd oml mucosa (i.e., not hanl palate).
Remmber: Herpetic lesions are preceded by vesicles and are more likely to be found on keratinized
tissue. See picture #95 in booklet
\ote: Systemic diseases in which aphthous ulcers are seen include: Crohn's disease /rarnor aphthae),Be-
hcet s syndrome ftnln or aphthae), Celiac sprue (minor aphthae). and AIDS (maior aphlhae).
These ulce6 appear to be associated with stress. The stress factors may include:
. Bacterial infection
. Trn[fia li.e., self-i ticted, oral surgen, procedures, routine dental procedures)
. Endocrine conditions (i.e., a lemales menstrual period)
. AIIergic factors fi.e., ceittain foods or drugs)
. Immunologic abnomalities
. lr,Jn- Viramin B or folic acid deficiencres
*** The calse is unknown; however, evidence supports they are related to the focal immune dys-
function where T-lymphocytcs play a major role
The tvpical " bull's-eye-shaped" target lesions are present. These lesions are considered
parhognomonic.The classical triad ofthis SJS consists ofeye lesions, genital lesions and
stomatitis. lmportant: The lesions ol SJS are severe and often vesicular or bullous,
r ith hemonhage after denudation. Note: Blindness can occur due to secondary infection.
Drugs and malignancis are most often implicated as the etiology in adults and the eld-
erly. Pediatric cases are related more often to infections than to malignancy or a reaction
to a drus.
ORAL PATHOLOGY Ulc Cond
The lesion below is a. smnll (2mm-Smm in diameter), whitish sore with a red
border. The patient strtes that it usually begins as a reddish area with a
trurning or tingling sensation. The most likely diagnosis is:
154
Copyrighr lil20ll 1012 ' Denlal Deck!
. Petechial hemorrhage
. Mucocutaneous rash
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There are three forms or classifrcations ofrecunent aDhthous stomatitis fuhich is also
called recurent aphthous ulcers, canker sores, etc.)
l.Recurrent aphthous minor: is the most common form of the disease and the
one referred to by the lay public as the "canker sore." The lesions occur somewhat
more frequently in women than in rnen. Minor aphthae have a propensity for movable
mucosa that is situated over minor salivary gland tissue. The lesions begin as a single
or multiple superficial erosion covered by a gray membrane. The lesion is typically
very painful. The lesions vary in size from 2-3 mm to over l0 mm in diameter They
generally persist for 7- l0 days and heal gradually with little or no evidence of scar-
ring.
2. Recurrent aphthous major: is characterized by the occurrence of large
(5-20 nm) painful ulcers, usually one to ten in number. These ulcers occur
at frequent intervals and rrany patients with this disease are seldom free from the pres-
ence ofat least one ulcer Unlike the minor aphthous ulcer, these lesions persist for up
to six weeks and leave a scar upon healing.
3. Recurrent herpetiform: the prominent feature of the disease is the numerous,
pinhead-sized, gray-white erosions that enlarge, coalesce, and become irregular ulcers.
Ulcers occur in clusters of 10 to 100.
Remember: Vesicular lesions do not precede the formation of ulcers in all of the
abor e. This is a distinctive diagnostic feature.
\ote: In healing ofan ulcer, the epithelium that eventually will cover the defect is derived
liom intact epithelium al the ulcer margin.
Erlthema multiforme frMl is a hypersensitivity reaction that occurs in mild and scvere forrns lt
produccs tissue reactions ccntered on the superficial vcsscls of lhe skin and mucous menbranes.
Pre.ipilating iactors includc infcctions such as herpes simplex, mycoplasma pneumonia and histo-
plasmosis. dmgs, radiation therapy. etc. lt occurs primarily in children and young adults. The di-
a!:no5is oferythema multilorme is primarily based on the classic skin lesion appearance.
Note: Behcet's syndrome is a rare disorder that causcs chronic inflammation in blood vessels
rhroughout the body. Manifestations include oral and genital aphthous-type ulcers. conjunctivitis,
uveitis, arthritis, headache, and other CNS symptoms. Treatment with corticosteroids and other im-
munosupprcssive drugs prcvents serious complications, such as blindness.
. Coccidioidomycosis
. Histoplasmosis
. Tuberculosis
. Actinomycosis
. Scarlet fever
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Copfight O 2011,2012, Dntal Decks
. Syphilis
. Gonorrhea
. Chlamydia
. Tuberculosis
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Actinomycosis is a subacute{o-chronic bacterialinfection caused byActinom)ces israellii, an anaerobic, graln-pos-
ilive filamentous bacterium. The infection is not a contagious discasc and can not be spread fron person lo pcrson.
Inlcctions appear after trauma! surgery or previous infection.
Clinical fcatures:
. \4ost infections occur in thc lhorax. abdomen and head and neck called cervicofacial actinomycosis /i,
-
fection n'picall.v occurs i puti?ntsIi!hpoorlental hryiene or lilloti gorc| surgen)
. oftcn prescnts as a swelling ofthe nandible and usually is painful
. Once in the tissue, Actinomyces forms an abscess, prcducing a hard. red-to-reddish-pu4)le Iump, olien on the
jaw "lump) jalr" *** See picture #70 in booklet
. -
Exudatc from thc draining sinus tracts often contain small, clinically visiblc ycllow-green calcified structures
(sulfur grunules) arc adually colonics ofinficting organisms
-\\hich
*+* Treatnrent for aclinomycosis is long-term penicillin.
Histoplasmosis is a chronic lung infection caused by inhalalion ofspores of Histoplasma capsulatum. It is en-
dcmic ro rhcAmerican Mid\r'esr. The lassic oral manifestation ol histoplasmosis infection is a chronic non-
healing ulcer. Note: The lesions are usually covercd bv a non-specifrc gray membranc and are induratcd.
Clinical features:
. Fe\er. malaisc, cough, and dyspnea
. Ccrvicll lymphsdenopathy is common
. In chronic fonns, dissemination to the skin and oral mucous membrancs may be the first sign ofinfec-
"** Treatmenr for histoplasmosis is an)photericin B, itraconazolc or ketoconazole for 6-12 months.
Coccidioidomlcosis (also ktlo\n as Mller lever) results fron inhaling the spores olCoccidioides species
'C,iLtJi)id!\ i,tmilis or Coccidioicles posada';ir. Most infections in the United States arc acquired within the
l|: ,,: reuions ofcndcmiciq ofsouthern Arizona, centfitl or othcr arcas ofClalifornia. southcm Nc$'Mcxico,
::rc \.i: Tc\as. Symptoms are similar to histoplasmosis and it is usually treated $ iih amphotericin B.
\otc: Scarlet feier is a systemic infection causcd by Strcptococcus pyogenes. It i! characterized by pharyn-
irirs. l!!cr. malaise, strawberry tongue (hos d :||hile coating with red, inflaned fungiforn pupillae) and ^
ikr:r :ash Important: The p!'rogenic (et_rlhrogeni() e\?toni,'? causes the rash ofscarlet fevcr and systemic
:.,\ ta ihock slndrome.
Srphilis is an inf'cctious. contagious venereal discase that is caused by the spirochetc treponema
pallidum. It is one of the less common scxually transrnitted infections /S11/. The incubation pe-
nod \aries some$.hat bctween 10 and 90 days. Thc sylnptonls ofsyphilis may pass unrecognizcd,
!rr Dra\ be nlisintcrpleted and at times there arc no initial symptoms at all. Whcn prcscnt. thc clas-
irJai s\mptoms ofsyphilis lnanifest themsclves in threc stages as lbllows:
L Primarr': the first symptom is a non-painlil chancre that generally appears 2-6 weeks alier
e\l-r.)sure. lt usually is fbund on thc part ofthe body exposed to thc partner's ulcer. such as thc
tL'ni\. thc \ul\a, or the vagina. lt can also develop on thc cervix, tonguc. lips. or othcr parts of
lhe brrd) The chancrc disappears within a l'erv wccks whethcr or not a penon is trcated. Ifnot
lrcatcd during thc primary stagc. about one third ofpeoplc will progress to chlonic stages.
i. Secondarl: is a highly infectious stage; it occurs 6 weeks aftcr non-treatment of primary
:r philis. \\'idely dissetrinated spirochetes cause mucous lnerlbranes 10 cxhibit a reddish brown
nraculopapular cutaneous rash and ulcers that are covered with a nucoid cxudate ku/led mu-
.ot,r pdtches). Condylomata lat^ (\'hich are elevated bntad-based pluquesl are also seen on
ikln and mucosal sr-rrl'aces. lf left untrcatcd, thesc symptoms will rcsolve on their oq,n but thc
iniictious microbc remains behind. It is at this point that syphilis passes into its latent phase.
This \ilent period ntay last fbr many ycars and permits the infcction to evolve wi{hout any ob-
\ rous cxtemal symptoms. At this point. the only nrcthod ofdctecting the prcscnce ofsyphilis is
\ i r., blood lc.l spccilic lor syphrlis.
.l. Tertiary: occurs in inf'ected persons many years alier non-trcatment ofsecondary syphitis. Thc
gumma (*,lrich is a .fotal nodular nlasr) typifies this stage. lt most cornmonly occurs on lhe
palate and tonguc. The bacteria damage the hcart, eyes, brain, nervous svstem, bones.joints, or
almosl any othcr part ofthe body. Note: Headache, stit'fneck, and f'ever are symptorrs of neur-
os)philis.
Remember: Conorrhca is a sexually transmitted disease caused by Neisseria gononhoeae. An oral
manifestation of gonorrhea is oral pharyngitis.
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. Coccidioiodomycosis
. Mucormycosis
. Aspirgillosis
. Zygomycosis
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Congenital syphilis is caused by infcction with thc spirochctc Treponema pallidum during the
fetal period. Expectant mothers who have syphilis can transmit the disease through the placenta to
the unbom infant. Nearly halfofall infants infected with syphilis during gestation die shortly be-
forc or after birth.
The severity ofcongenital syphilis depends upon l) The time in which the organisn]s pass the pla-
cental barier (protected up to I6th week), 2) The mother's stage of syphilis and, 3) The immuno-
logic rcsponsc ofthe fctus. Iftrcated by the 4th or 5th month, 957n show no manilestationsi ifnot
feated, fetal sepsis may result in stillbirth or visceral and mucocutaneous manifestations.
l. Symptoms in the newborn
.lrritability
. Failure to thrive
. Bloody discharge from the nose
. Saddle nose, lrontal bossing and short maxilla
. Later rash: coppcr-colorcd, vcsicles on the palms and soles
. Early rash: small blisters or a flat bumpy rash on the lbce. palms and sole
2. Symptoms in older infant and young child
. Bone pain
. Joint swelling
. Abnormal teeth fHrbhinson's incisors)
. Saber shins r'borre abnormalitT- qfthe lower leg)
. Gray, mucous-like patches on the anusandy\tlya (cond),lona lata)
. Visual loss. CN VIII nerve deafness and intentitital keratitis
. Scaning of the skin around earlier lesions of the mouth, genitalia, and ants (called rha-
gctdesl
Remember: Hutchinson's triad combination of Hutchinson's teeth, interslitial keratosis,
-the
and deafness due to lesions ofthe eighth cranial nerve. Note: "Screwdriver" incisors and "Mul-
berry molars," dcntal defects seen in congenital syphilis are caused by direct invasion of tooth
germs by Treponema organisms.
The gencra most commonly rcsponsible for mucormycosis usually are Mucor or Rhizopus. Orbito-
rhrno-cerebral mucormycosis, the most common typc, genemlly occurs in conjunction rvith sinus
rrr nasal involvement. Mucormycosis also may aflect other parts ofthc body, including the lungs,
GI tract. or skin.
Diabetic patients arc predisposed to mucormycosis because of thc decreased ability of thcir neu-
rrophrls 10 phagocytize and adhcre to endothelial walls. Furthermore, the acidosis and hyper-
glycemia provide an excellent environrnent for the fungus to grow.
Othcr patrent. at risk include thc follou ing:
. Patients on chronic antibiotics, steroids, or c),totoxic therapy
. Palienls with chronic renal failure or liver problems
. Parients with transplants
. Palients with cancet HtV, malnutrition or acidosis
Important: In the head and neck, most lesions appear as destructive ulcerations in the paranasal
sinuses or nasal cavity.
The use of systemic amphotericin B is important in treating mucomrycosis; its use, along with in-
crcased awareness ofthe disease, has decrcascd thc mortality
Rhizopus is the principal cause ofzygomycosis, which occurs primarily in patients suffcring from
diabetic ketoacidosis (thinocerebral diseasel, malnutrition, scvcrc bums, or who are itnmuno-
compromrsed.
Aspergillosis is a group ofillnesses caused by mold. In some people, the spores trigger an allergic
reaction. Other people develop mild to serious lung infections. The most serious form of as-
pergillosis invasive aspergillosis occu6 when the infection sprcads to blood vessels and be-
yond, into the lungs to othcr organs. Note: Aspergillosis is the second most frequently seen f'ungal
infection ofthe f'ace and mouth in patients receiving chemotherapy. It is second only to candida in
its fiequcncy. Oral lesions appear as necrotic ulcerations with gray pscudornembranes ofthe gin-
siva and hard palate.
A 4-year-old ptint comes with hr mother for a routine appointment. The
mother states that her d.ughter just started not feling well and had a mild
fever earlier in the day. Th daughter has ben having troubl swallowing.
An intraoral exam reveals multiple 1-2 mm vesiculopapular lesions ofthe
nasopharynx and soft palate. Your working diagnosis is:
. Herpangina
. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease
. Pemphigus lrlgaris
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ORAL PATHOLOGY
Which type ofherpes virus is associated with the lesion on the lower lip?
. HSV- l
. HSV-2
. HSV-3
. HSV-4
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Herpangina refers to a stomatitis (inflammotion ofthe mouth) caused by a strain olthe
Coxsackie- virus. It is differentiated in clinical practice from Type I Herpes infection (the
cold sore virus) by the fact that the ulcerations ofherpangina are localized to the poste-
rior soft palate and nasopharynx. Remember: Herpes Type I lesions are found typi-
cally more forward in the mouth on the tongue, gingiva, buccal mucosa and appear as
vesicles (smal/, cleqr blisters that ulcerate and crust) around the mouth and on the lips.
Clinical features:
. Most commonly affects infants and young children
. Typically occurs during the summer
. Typically spreads via the fecal-oral route or via the respiratory droplets
. Symptoms are mild and short in duration (no more than I v'eek)
. Sore throat and difficulty swallowing
. Mild fever
. Small vesicular or punctuate lesions with white base on posterior soft palate near
uvula and anterior fauces ofthe tonsils *** See picture #71 in booklet
Important: The disease usually runs its course in less than a week. The treatment is pal-
liative.
*** Remember: The majority oforal herpes cases are caused by HSV-l and the majority of
genital herpes cases are caused by HSV-2.
. Recurrent /secord4ry, herpetic stomatitis generally occurs in adult patients and is trig-
gered by trauma, fatigue, immunosuppression, stress, allergy or sunlight, which causes the
release (or rcdctivalioz) ofthe latent HSV-l virus in the trigeminal ganglion. This reacti-
vation causes a recurrent infection f.e., told soles) on the lips (that is bound to periost-
euml, hard palate, attached gingiva and alveolar ridge. Site-specificity is a characteristic
manifestation. Note: Lesion on the finger is called herps whitlow.
. Cytomegalovirus
. Epstein-Barr virus
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. Lipschutz bodies
. Civatte bodies
. Lisch nodules
. Reed-Stemberg cells
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Primary herpes is most common in children and young adults. Patients develop fever. ir-
ritability, regional lymphadenopathy and headache. Within days. the gingiva becomes in-
tensely inflamed. Any pan of the oral mucosa and lips may become involved. Vesicles
then form and rupture a short time later to leave shallow ulcers covered with a gray mem-
brane and surrounded by a red halo. These ulcers are very painful. These ulcers will heal
on their own within 7 to 14 days.
After recovery from primary HSV infection, the virus is not cleared from the body, but,
rather. it lies dormant in a non-replicating state, in the sensory nervous system (specili-
call,r, the trigeminal ganglion/. Periodically, Iatency reactivates. allowing the virus to
retum to the skin or mucous membranes, where it causes a recurrent inlection. Cold sores
are a manifestation ofrecurrent herpes simplex virus infection around the mouth. The
lr.rost common site is on the lips. Some factors that are often associated with a recurrent
outbreak are: sunbum, fatigue, emotional upset, trauma, upper respiratory tract infection
or menstruation. Often a day belore the formation of vesicles there will be a tingling or
itching ofthe skin or mucosa. Vesicles ulcerate and resolve the same as in the primary in-
i-ection.
Histofogically, the cytopathic effect (CPE) take the form ofballooning degeneration of
rhe epithelial cells with loss of cohesion to adjacent cells. The nuclei are olten multiple
*ith margination ofthe chromatin around the intra-nuclear inclusions called Lipschultz
bodies. These changes can be seen in scrapings taken from an unroofed vesicle (tlrcse
.rcrapings are callerl a Tzanck smear).
The Tzanck smear is done by smearing cells taken from a fresh blister or ulcer onto a
mrcroscope slide. The cells are stained with a special stain, such as Wright's stain, and
then examined under a microscope for characteristic changes caused by a herpesvims.
Herpes causes giant cells with multiple nuclei. The shape ofeach nucleus appears molded
ro t'it together u ith those adjacent. The background ofthe cell looks like ground glass and
contains snall dark spots called inclusion bodies (Lipshutz bodies).
Biopsied material will show an intraepithelial cleft covered by an exudates offibrin and
polyrnorphonuclear leukocytes. The epithe|um willexhibit degenerative cells, which in-
clude bizarre giant cells and cells with displaced chromatin with perinuclear halos and
inclusions.
. Herpangina
. Recurrent herpes
. Chicken pox
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. Manifested as ANUG
. Subclinical
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The varicella zoster virtrs (VZV) is a member ofthe herpes virus group. It causes the dis-
ease chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (herpes zoster). The virus is very contagious and
may be spread by direct contact or droplets.
Shingles (herpes zosle, is the result ofreactivation ofa latent varicella-zoster virus that
is believed to reside in the sacral ganglia from a childhood case ofchickenpox. The virus
reaches the sensory ganglia ofthe spinal and cranial newes, producing an inflammatory
response. It is characterized by painful vesicles that occur on the skin or mucosal surfaces
along the distribution ofa sensory nerve in a distinctive unilateral pattern.
\ote: The histology for both chickenpox and shingles shows the same cytopathic effect
as seen in herpes simDlex.
Herpes simplex is one ofthe most common viral diseases affecting man. The primary in-
fection. rvhich is known as primary herpetic gingivostomatitis, is most common in
r oung children /rin der live yeors old). It usually occurs in a child who has had no contact
u ith the Type I herpes simplex virus, and who therefore has no neutralizing antibodies.
h mal also affect young adults //J-25). Nearly all primary rnfections (90o/o) are ofthe sub-
clinicaf type (they moy only have flulike symptoms) and one or two mild sores in the
mouth lvhich go unnoticed by the parents.
In other children, the primary infection may be manifested by acute s)'rnptoms, which is
knorvn as acute herpetic gingivostomatitis. These symptoms include feveq initability,
cen ical lymphadenopathy, fiery red gingival tissues and small yellowish vesicles that
mprure and result in painful ulcers on the free and attached mucosa. The most serious po-
tential problem in a child with this infection is dehydration due to the child not wanting
io eat or ddnk because ofthe pain. See picture #72 in booklet
The treatment is supportive and aimed toward the reliel of the acute symptoms so that
fluid and nutritional intake can be maintained. Primary herpetic gingivostomatitis usu-
ally runs a course of l2-20 days, and the ulcers heal without scaning.
\ote: Corticosteriods are contraindicated in patients with herpes simplex infections.
v-B Dis
After the initial primary attack during the early childhood period,
the herpes simplex virus remains inactive most comrnonly in the:
. Geniculate ganglion
. Ciliary ganglion
. Trigeminal ganglion
. Pterygopalatine ganglion
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. Herpes zoster
. Lupus erythematosus
. Lichen Planus
. Pemphigus
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The inactive herpes simplex virus resides in sensory nerve ganglia (mo.st commotll!', the
trigeminal gangliol, but will often reappear later as the familiar "cold sore," usually orr
the outside of the lips. This disease is referred to as "recurrent herpes labialis." Emo-
tional stress, trauma and excessive exposure to sunlight have been implicated as factors
for the appearance of the recurrent herpetic lesions on the lip. Acyclovir 57o ointment
(Zovirax) as well as valacyclovir, and famciclovir have been successful in reducing the du-
ration and severity ofthese sores.
Remcmber:
I.Herpes Simpfex Type I (prinary; herpelic gingirostomLttiti.t, recuftent herpes labi-
dlrt is transmitted by direct contact. It affects the lips. face, skin and oral mucosa.
2. Herpes Simplex Type ll (herpe.s geuitalis/ is spread by sexual contact. It affects
the mucosa ofthe genital and anal regions.
\ote: Cenital herpes may have serious consequences in pregnant women because the
r irus can be tnnsmitted to the infant during vaginal delivery. The virus can cause dam-
age to the infant's central nerr,'ous system and/or eyes.
Remember: The primary infection of herpes simplex can range from subclinical
IQs\tnptonqtic, v'hich is most common) to severe systemic infections.
Penrphigus (an autoimmune disorrler) is a term used to describe blistering ofthe skin caused
b1 binding ofantibodies to the surface ofthe cells ofthe outer layer ofthe skin, the epider-
mis. In pemphigus yulgaris, the most common form ofpemphigus. antibodies are directed
against rhe desmosomal adhesion molecule Dsg3, resulting in severe mucosal erosions and
eprdermal blistering in areas such as the mouth. As a result, patients develop severe oral ul-
cerations. and may also have inflammation or erosions of the lining of the eye and eyelids
I conitol(tiya), the nasal mucosa, or the genital mucosa. Half of the patients also develop b)is-
rers or erosions ofthe skin, often in the head and neck area. It seldom occurs before the age
oi j0 rususlly benteeu 30 and 50) and occurs more frequently in Jewish people.
Oral lesions are often the first manifestation ofthe disease. Intact bullae are rarely seen in the
oral cavit,v. instead, large areas ofulceration and erosions are often seen that are covered by a
u hite or blood+inged exudates. Sometimes, areas of epithelium will slide ofl simply by rub-
bing of an apparently unaffected area (this is 1e7-lt?ed Nikolsky's sign/. This disease is often
fatal without therapy, which includes high-dose systemic steroids or chemotherapy /br e-r-
drp1e, methotrxate/.
Important histological features: The vesicles and bullae are fbrmed entirely intraepithelially,
just above the basal layer of cells (calletl suprabasilar veslcleJi. There is intercellular edema
and loss ofintercellular bridges with loss ofcohesiveness. This is called acantholysis. Clumps
of cells are often found floating free in the vesicle space (tieve cells are called Tzanck cells).
. Candidiasis
. Hairy leukoplakia
. Desquamative gingivitis
. Hemorrhagic mass
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. Adenovirus
. Epstein-Barr virus
. Parvovirus
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Benign mucous membrane pemphigoid (BMMP) is an autoimmune or "self-allergy" dis-
ease in which a patient's own circulating antibodies become altered so that they attack the
fibrous attachment of the skin and membrane epithelium to the underlying connective tis-
sues. Women are more commonly affected than men and the disease is usually diagnosed
between the ages of 40-60 years. The typical lesion is a small or large, clear-fluid blister
which breaks fairly rapidly in the mouth to leave a flat white, somewhat tender ulcer with
a thin red line around it. The gingivae are especially likely to be involved, resulting in
sloughing during eating or tooth brushing ("desquamative gingivitis"). Systemic steroid
therapy has provided adequate management of BMMP Note: Conjunctival involvement
may lead to blindness.
While similar in its clinical presentation to pemphigus vulgaris, it is much less severe
and the involved antibodies attack the attachment fibrils (Type VII collagen) ofthe base-
ment membrane antigens fi.e., Laminin 5 and BP 180), rather than the desmosomal at-
tachments (desmoglein 3 [Dsg3] ) between epithelial cells, as occurs in pemphigus.
Important: Histologically, the major difference between BMMP and pemphigus r,ulgaris
is that the vesicles in BMMP are subepidermal and there is no evidence of acantholy-
sis in pemphigus vulgaris there is acantholysis and a suprabasilar vesicle,
-
This is the same virus that causes genital wans which lcads to dysplasia and cervical cancer. Some esti
mates ofthe prevalence of IIPV infection in the population range as high as 79%. Warts may arise on
anv skin surface, bnt occur most commonly at acrd (peripheral) sites. Although treatment may remove
rhe \\'art. the virus remains latent within the skin cells. However, treatrnent may diminish spread ofHPV
in the skin ofthe infected patient and possibly to uninfccted contacts.
. Papillomas:
. Benign epithelial prolifefttions (pedu culated or sessile) of \ftle significance.
. \trruca vulgaris (also called squamous papillona) has an incubation period from about six
\\'eeks to a ycar. Although it is primarily a lcsion ofthe skin, it may occur in the oral cavity, partic-
ularly on the lips and palate. Clinically, it is a sessile, soft, cauliflower-like lesion. Ifexcised, they
usually do not recur, but autoinoculation is possible. Note: Intraorally, that is how most cases dc-
vclop. Much more prevalent in HIV positive patients
. Condyfoma acuminatum (ge ilalwa s): Caused by HPV subtypes 6 and l1; oral lesions acquired
b) oral-genital contact; broad-based verruciform lesion.
. Focal epithelial hyperpl^si^ (Heck\ dise4se,): Most common in ethnic groups fi.e., Nat[re Artel-
icans ond Centtul Anlencdrt. Multiple small, dome-shaped warts on oral mucosa. Caused by HPV
subttpes 13 and 32.
Important: Sexually transmitted, high-risk HPVS include types 16, 18, 31, and 33. Tlese are the HPV
t] pes associated with cancer.
A 45-year-old female walks into your olfice complaining ofa "wart" on her
gums that has been thre for yars. Your exan reveals an asymptomatic,
well-circumscribed, slightly raised, papillomatous lesion on the buccal
gingiva of tooth #5. A likely diagnosis of this is:
. Fibrosarcoma
. Neurosatcoma
. Lipoma
. Verucifonn xanthoma
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. Epulis fissuratum
. Papillary hyperplasia
. Nicotinic stomatitis
. Kaposi's sarcoma
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This unique Iesion occurs in middle-aged individuals /alera.ge a.ge i.s 45 t t'ars). Thc usual intraoral lo-
cations are the gingiva and alveolar mucosa, but any oral mucosal site may bc involvcd. Thc lesion ap-
pears as a rvcll-circurnscribed, slightly elevated mass with a papillomatous or vcrrucous surfacc.Thc
level of keratinization of the surface will influence its color. which ranses fiom \1hit(r or red.
When in bone,lesion Rare sofl tissue and bony malignancy Wide surgical excision;
ma), arise fiom perio- ofthe head and neck. Young adults are reculTence not common
stcum. endosteum or most commonly affected. Infi ltrative
PDL. When in sofl neoplasm that is locally deslructive.
trssue. fibroblasts.
Clinical Treatment
f,nrity Etiolo$ Location Characteristics lrd Prognosis
De.nire-induced fi brous lll-fitting prosihesis Common lesion I'ainless folds offi' Surgical excision
hlpcrplasia that occuis in the
, I t'll a|""at ory prosthesis with
b,peryla si a,
d?nhrc h\perplasia, attd overextended denture possible remaking
'Epulis lissvtatum") flange conects flange
relining dnturs
Papillar,v hyperplasia Poor oral hyglene & Hard palate Surgical cxcision
r
_Palatrl papillomatosis!') ill fitlinf prosthesis papillary projections.
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ORAL PATHOLOGY
. Fordyce granulation
. Leukoedema
. Leukoplakia
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The paprlloma is a benign exophytic papillary growth of stratified squamous epithelium.
Note: The common wart, or verruca vulgaris, is a lrequent tumor of skin analogous to
the oral papilloma.
Clinical features:
. Adults
. Anywhere on the oral mucosa
. Sessile or pedunculated exophytic growth
. Papillary ftauliflowerJike) appearance
. Long duration
. May show considerable keratin and in some instances appear white clinically. If it
has little keratin on the surface it will appear pink.
The appearance varies from a filmy opalescence of the mucosa in the early stages to a
more definite grayish-white cast with a coarsely wrinkled surface in the later stages. The
lesions usually occur bilaterally and are most noticeable along the occlusal line in the bi-
cuspid and molar region. Diagnostically, one can stretch the tissue and the white essen-
tiallv disappears. Important: Leukoplakia would not disappear when stretched.
Important point: Leukoedema appears to be simply a variant ofnormal mucosa and no
treatment is necessary; merely diagnosis. See picture #73 in booklet
Remember: Snuff pouch (SP) is a form of hyperkeratosis with various degrees ofclin-
ical manifestation (1.e., white mucosal change). SP develops on those mucosal sites where
the tobacco is held. The causal agents ofSP are considered to be the nitrosamines and hy-
drocarbons contained in tobacco. Prolonged use ofthis habit may conduce to the devel-
opment of a squamous cell carcinoma due to the carcinogenic potential of those
components. See picture #77 in booklet
ORAL PATHOLOGY WLes
A 67-year-old Caucasian male comes into your oflice for a routine check-up, He
relates to you that he just got back from Florida where he goes for the fall and
winter months. He enjoys taking his boat out with his wife. Your extraoral
exam shows chapped lips but his lower lip also presents with grayish-white
plaques. There is marked loss ofelasticity of the vermillion border.
Which of the following would you make your diagnosis:
. Actinic keratosis
. Actinic cheilitis
. Actinic dermatitis
. Solar lentigo
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Actintc (solar) cheilitis, a variant oforal leukoplakia, is considered to be the labial coun-
terpart of solar (actinic) kerctosts (a precursor of SCC of the skin). The lips appear dry
mottled, and opalescent with slightly elevated white or gray plaques and that cannot be
stripped off Isolated areas ofhyperkeratotic callus may also be evident as well as loss of
elasticity and definition ofthe vermilion border. See picture #74 in booklet
The short-term effects of exposure to UV light (especioll.v UVB, 2900 to 3200 wn) are
transient, but the cumulative long-term effects produce irreversible damage (actinic cheili-
/lr, usually to the lower lip ofexposed individuals.
Malignant change is manifested clinically by areas of more diffuse cheilitis and ulcera-
tions ofrelatively long duration. Although degenerative changes have been observed pre-
dominantly in men after the age 40, the condition now is increasingly recognized in
) ounger men.
Important: This condition is considered premalignant and may lead to squanous cell
carcinoma. It should be treated accordinslv.
Leukoplakia is a premalignant lesion. This means that ifleft untreated, some ofthe lesions progress
carcinoma. [t is bccause ofthis chance ofmalignant translbrmation that all leukoplakias should
r(r
be biopsied, Note: Leukoplakia is a clinical diagnosis.
. Idiopathic leukoplakia: refers to white/opaque oral mucosa lesions that do not rub off and
are not clinically diagnostic for any other whitc lesions. The causc is unknown, however, tobacco
iitation (especialll pipel and alcohol may be contributing facto.s. [t is more common in older
men. lt is a slowly developing change in a mucous membrane characterized by thickened, white,
1irmly attached patches that arc slightly raised and sharply circumscribed. Lesions ofthe floor
of the mouth and base ofthe tongue are most aggressive. Most display no dysplasia but can
de\ elop into rnalignancy (5'% to I5o/A.ln all cases, leukoplakia must be completely excised
since diagnosis cannot be made clinically. See picture #75 in booklet
. Proliferative verrucous leukoplakia: it is a high-risk form of leukoplakia The cause is un-
knorvn, although somc are associated with human papillomavirus 16 and 18. Lesions arc re-
cuffent or persistent and usually multiple. Lesions may start llat but progress to broad-based'
v artllke (vermcforn) lesions. There is a high risk ofmalignant transformrtion to verrucous
carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma.
Note: When mechanical irritation produces a white lesion it is called frictional keratosis.
ORAL PATHOLOGY
. Lichen planus
. Erythroplakia
. Leukoplakia
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. Angular cheilitis
. Vemrca vulgaris
. Stomatitis nicotina
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The etiology ofleukoplakia is thought to be a varied one. Possible etiologic tactors include
tobacco, aicohol, and oral sepsis. It is most often due to tobacco use. Some investigators
believe that pipe smoking is most harmful.
Leukoplakia is clinical white patch or plaque on the oral mucosa which will not rub off
a
and which cannot be characterized as any specific disease. Most reports indicate that
leukoplakia is more common in elderly men. Although less common than leukoplakias.
erythroplakias, have a much greater potential for becoming malignant.
Important: Any white or red lesion that does not resolve itself in two weeks should be
reevaluated and considered for biopsy to obtain a definitive diagnosis.
The term carcinoma in situ is applied to mucosal lesions which resemble leukoplakia in
all respects xcept that dysplasia is very pronounced and involves almost all epithelial lay-
ers. It shows no tendency to invade or metastasize to other tissues.
It is also associated with the loss of vertical dimension.This situation is generally ob-
sen ed in elderly patients.The corners ofthe mouth become painful, iffitated, red, cracked,
and scaly. The fungus Candida albicans (thrush) may grow in the corners ofthe mouth,
keeping them sore. Note: It can also result from a bacterial (i.e., Staph)'lococcal) infec-
tlon.
It occurs in individuals that habitually lick their lips and deposit small amounts ofsaliva
in the commissural angles. It is also associated with nutritional deficiencies (i.e.. vitamin
B-) [riho.favinJ, vitamin B-3 [niacinJ, vitamin 8-6 [pvridoxineJ. or vitamin B-12
Io anoc obalaminJ, or a deficiency in iron).
\ote: Nvstatin will invariably eliminate the fungal infection and an antibacterial is used
lo treat the bacterial inlection ifpresent.
. Leukoplakia
. Epidermolysis bullosa
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. Filiform papillae
. Fungiform papillae
. Circumvallate papillae
. Foliate papillae
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White sponge nevus is an autosomal dominant trait due to mutations ofkeratin 4 and/or 13. tt
has no sex preference. lt presents as an asymptomatic. deeply folded, white or gray lesion
that may affect several mucosal sites. Lesions tend to be somewhat thickened and have a
spongy consistency. The presentation intraorally is almost a)ways bilateral and symmetric and
usually appears early in life, typically before puberty. The buccal mucosa is the usual loca-
tion. See picture #79 in booklet
Important: There is no treatment for $,hite sponge nevus! howevel since the condition is
perfectiy benign, the prognosis is excellent. There are no serious clinical aomplications.
Note: lt is often mistaken for leukoplakia.
Nlicroscopically, a featufe that unique to prickle cells lbund in rvhite sponge nevus is per-
inuclear eosinophilic condensation of cytoplasm.
Note: Hyperkeratosis is an abnonnal increase in the thickness of the keratin layer (stratum
corneun) of Ihe epithelium. It is one ofthe most common white cheek lesions ofthe oral mu-
cous rnembranes (often in an area of cht onic cheek biting) and presents as being thick and
scailr.
Epidermolysis bullosa is a general term that encompasses one acquired and several genetic
t ariet\es (dystrophic, .jtnctional, sizpler/ of disease that are basically chamcterized by the
lbnnation ofblisters at sites of minor trauma (especiall ot'er tlrc elbov and kleesl. Several
genetic types range from autosomal dominant to autosomal recessjve. The feature common to
a1l subtypes of epidermolysis bullosa is bulla formation from minor provocation, usually
or er areas ofstress, such as the elbows and knees. Oral lesions are panicularly common and
:er ere in the recessive forms and uncommon in the acquired form. These lesions include bul-
lae. scaning. and hypoplastic teeth. These lesions are most pronounced in the type known as
recessi!e dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.
Hain tongue is a benign condition ofthe tongue. The dorsum ofthe tongue appears furry
due to the elongated papillae. The color varies lrom yellowish-white to brown or black.
\ote: It is associated with poor oral hygiene, extended use ofantibiotics, cofticosteroids.
hr droven peroxide and smoking. See picture #80 in booklet
. Erythema multiforme
. Pemphigus vulgaris
. Lichen planus
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. Leukoplakia
. Candidiasis
. Lichen planus
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These lacelike white striae, the so-called Wickham's striae, are a classic presentation of
lichen planus. They are often bilateral and symmetrical in distribution.
Lichen planus is a fairly common inflanmatory disease that usually affects the skin,
the mouth, or sometimes both. It aflects women slightly more than men, and occurs most
often in middle-aged adults. TJymphocytes destroy basal keratinocytes, however. the rea-
son for this immunologically mediated phenomenon is unknown. Lichen planus of the
mouth most commonly affects the buccal mucous membrane. It may also been seen on
the tongue, lips, hard palate and gingiva. The lace-like striae are usually asymptomatic,
but sometimes the patient may complain ofa burning sensation. The intraoral lesions re-
spond to topical steroid therapy. In addition to the usual form of lichen planus, there are
lrvo other foms, bullous and erosive. [n the bullous forrn, fluid-filled vesicles project
from the surface. [n the erosive form, the lesions are intensely red or raw-appearing.
When drese lesions of erosive lichen planus involve the gingiva, they resemble desqua-
mative gingivitis. See picture #81 in booklet
Oral candidiasis also kaown as thrush, causes white, curd-like patches in the mouth or
lhroat. These patches typically appear on the tongue, inside ofthe cheeks, or on the palate.
Oral candidiasis typically occurs in people rvith abnormal immune systems. These can
include people undergoing chetrotherapy for canceq people taking immunosuppressive
dmgs to protect transplanted organs, or people with HIV infection.
This veast-like fungi is a normal inhabitant of the oral cavity and vaginal tract, however
it is normally held in check by the indigenous bacteria of these areas. The treatment for
oral candidiasis is topical through the use of lozenges (also called trouc}esl and mouth
rinses. the most widely used is nystatin, Note: Systemic treatment includes the use of
lluconazole or ketoconazole.
The "white patch" seen below has been present for nine months on a patient
who is a heavy pipe smoker. What is the treatment of choice?
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A 3s-year-old healthy female prsents to your office for routine dental work
While completing the restorativ treatment on the LL quadrant you notice that
her tongu has multiple irregularly shaped red lesions that have a white trorder.
You make a note in your chart. When she returns two weeks later for the
restorative work on the LR quadrant, you note that there are still lesions,
but in different locations on the tongue with different shapes.
What is your diagnosis?
. Fissured tongue
. Macroglossia
. Geographic tongue
. Hairy tongue
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Clinically. this is leukoplakia and should ahvays be biopsied due to the possibility ofit being a
premalignant lesion. Remember: Pipe smoking is thought to bc one of the nrost impona nt pre-
disposing ctiologic factors for thc dcvclopmcnt ofa lcukoplakia.
Important: The floor ofthe moutir, tongue and lower lip ale the regions at greatcst risk for car-
cinoma occurring in leukoplakia.
Stomatitis nicotina is related to pipe smoking (as uell as cigor snrokfugl and occurs exclusively
on thc palate. It aff'ccts malcs prcdominantly. The palate first appea$ rcd and inflamqd. Soon it
develops a diff-usc, grayish-white, thickened, multinodular popular appearance rvith a small red
"spot" in thc ccntcr ofeach tiny nodule. This "spot" corrcsponds to the orifices ofpalatal sali-
vary gland ducts. Thc treatmcnt for this condition is the cessation ofslnoking. It is usually not
considcrcd to bc a prcmalignant lesion.
See picture #84 in booklet
\ote: In India, thc usc ofsmokclcss tobacco in various forms is vcry popular. This habit, which
usually involves the chewing ofa betel q\id (combined areca nut, betel le.i, tohacco dnd slack
lindl. has lcd to thc dcvelopment, in a large proportion ofuscrs. ofa unique generalized fibrosis
of thc oral soft tissues, called oral submucous fibrosis. It typically affects the buccal mucosa.
Lips. rctromolar arcas and thc soft palatc. Early lcsions prcscnt as a blanching of the mucosa,
rmpaning a mottlcd, marble-like appcarance. Latcr lesions dcmonstrate palpablc fibrous bands
running vertically in the buccal mucosa and in a circular fashion around the mouth opening or lips.
As the disease progresses the mucosa becomes stiff, causing difficulty in cating and considcrably
rcstricting thc paticnt's ability to open the mouth (risnl ir,r/. Ifthc tongue is involvcd. it becomes
sritTand has a diminishcd sizc. Thqre is a fibroclastic transformation of thc.iuxta-epithclial con-
necti\ e tissues and an increased risk of oral carcinoma liom the tobacco ofthe quid.
ImDortant: Betel quid and smokcless tobacco also increascs the risk ofvcrrucous carcinoma.
*** lr rs also called eD4hema migrans. benign migratory glossitis, rvandcring rash ofthe tongue, erythema
lreara migrans. and stomatitis arcata migrans.
Grographic tongue is a hannless and very common condition in u'hich there is dcsquamation ofthe fil-
iform papillae. h is charactcrizcd by having one or more iregularly shapcd patches on thc longuc. Thc
a-r.r arca is redder lhan the rcst of the tongue and the edges of the patch are whitish in color Thcsc
r:rchcs eppcar and remain for a short time. heal. then reappear aI anothcr site. The patchcs usually do
rrrr r.sprrnd to reatment but disappcnr spontaneously. Note: The patient may complain ofa slight burn-
r:1g ofrhe tonguc. Se picture #82 in booklt
Fis!ured tongue /a/.f.r tttlleclsctotultongue) is charactcrized by a deep median fissure wilh laterally ra-
.iratrns srrrovcs. Thc lateral groovcs vary in number but are usually symmctrical in arrangcmcnt. It is rarc
r:r .illdrcn and increascs in incidence with age. The fissuring occurs across the dorsum ofthe tonere
:r.J rs u'ua11r' asyrnptomatic. but may bccomc painful if infccted with Candida Albicans.
See Dictur #83 in booklet
\ote: Fissurcd tongue is lbund in NlelkerssorFRosenthal Syndrome (dlong h ilh gtdnulonatous cheili-
t:t and liaial ner\e parallsis).
Remember: Gcographic tongue often occurs in association \\'ith fissured tonguc
\lacroglossia is tonguc enlargement that leads to ftrnctional and cosmctic problenls. Although this is a
relarivcl-v uncommon disorder. it may causc significant morbidity. Thcrc is no clear definition of
macroglossia and it may bc dcfined in relative, funclional, or structural terms. Causes includci
. An inflammatory cause is chronic glossitis
. Traumatic causes includc postoperative edema
. \Ietaboliccauses are myxedcma, amyloidosis, lipoid proteinosis. chronic steroid therapy, and
acromegal)
. The congenital causes are p n1ary idiopathic rnacroglossia. cretinism, hemangioma, lymphan-
gioma, Beckwith-Weidmann Syndrome, Dorvn Syndrome, generalized gangliosidosis syndrome,
and anv of the MuooDolvsaccharidoses.