Investigation of the Internal Structure and Radiological Characteristics of Distant Metastases to the Jaws: A Retrospective Study

Year 2024, Volume: 2 Issue: 3, 70 - 72, 30.12.2024

Ahmet Faruk Erturk , Gürkan Ünsal , Kaan Orhan

https://doi.org/10.62243/edr.1455830

Abstract

Aim Distant metastases to the jaws are uncommon but carry a grave prognosis, with an average survival of only a few months. This study aimed to investigate the internal structure and radiological features of metastatic lesions in the jaws, as well as their clinical presentations, to better understand their diagnostic characteristics and guide appropriate management.
Material and method Among 4,908 patients who underwent cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), 14 cases with histopathologically confirmed metastatic tumors to the jaws were identified. Clinical data, imaging modalities (orthopantomography, CBCT, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound), and histopathological findings were reviewed. The primary tumor sites, radiographic appearances (osteolytic vs. osteoblastic lesions), and histopathological patterns were examined.
Results Thirteen lesions were located in the mandible and one in the maxilla. The most common primary tumors originated from the breast, prostate, lung, kidney, and colon. While breast and prostate metastases appeared mostly as sclerotic (radiopaque) lesions, lung, kidney, and colon metastases typically presented as osteolytic (radiolucent) defects. In some cases, pathologic fractures and cortical destruction were evident. Histopathological evaluation confirmed metastatic carcinoma in all cases, demonstrating characteristic osteoblastic activity in breast and prostate cancers.
Conclusion Recognizing the radiological and histopathological features of distant metastases to the jaws is crucial for prompt diagnosis, accurate identification of the primary tumor, and appropriate treatment planning. Awareness of these lesions aids clinicians in differentiating metastases from other jaw pathologies and underscores the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration.

Keywords

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography, Diagnostic Imaging, Jaw Neoplasms, Neoplasm Metastasis, Oral cancer

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