Cone Beam Computed Tomography Findings in Calcifying Cystic Odontogenic Tumor Associated with Odontome: A Case Report.

The calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor (CCOT) is a rare cystic odontogenic neoplasm frequently found in association with odontome. This report documents a case of CCOT associated with an odontome arising in the anterior maxilla in a 28-year-old man. Conventional radiographs showed internal calcification within the lesion but were unable to visualize its relation with the adjacent structures and its accurate extent. In this case cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) could accurately reveal the extent and the internal structure of the lesion which aided the presumptive diagnosis of the lesion as CCOT. This advanced imaging technique proved to be extremely useful in the radiographic assessment and management of this neoplasm of the maxilla.

Takayasu's arteritis--report of a case with masquerading jaw pain.

Takayasu's arteritis (TA) often referred to as pulseless disease, is a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the aorta and its main branches. While the first reported case was documented in Japan in 1908, it does occur worldwide, but is more prevalent in young oriental females from China and Southeast Asia. The main complications of the disease are due to occlusion of major branches of the aorta. During the initial stages, one of the presenting symptoms may be jaw pain. This may prove to be a diagnostic challenge for the dentist, since many diseases cause orofacial pain and the diagnosis must be established before final treatment. A literature review of TA is presented along with clinical presentation and treatment modalities. A case report is also presented.

Estimation of the Serum and the Salivary Trace Elements in OSMF Patients.

OBJECTIVES: Gutkha packets contain trace elements like copper, zinc, iron and magnesium. This study compared the levels of the trace elements in patients with gutkha eating habits with or without oral submucous fibrosis and in healthy patients. STUDY DESIGN: A total of 75 patients were included in this study and they were divided into three groups; the individuals with a history of gutkha intake with OSMF, the individuals with a history of gutkha intake without OSMF and apparently healthy individuals without OSMF and without any habits. Blood and saliva was collected and they were subjected for analysis by using atomic absorption spectrometry and a differential pulse anodic stripping voltmeter. RESULTS: The results were tabulated and they were subjected to a statistical analysis. CONCLUSION: There was a significant difference in the serum Mg and Fe levels between the patients with habits and the normal healthy individuals. A significant difference was observed in the serum zinc levels in the patients with habits with and without OSMF. Altered serum trace element levels are documented in malignant cases and they are considered to be good biomarkers for malignancies. The serum copper and Zn levels and the Cu/Zn ratio in OSMF patients can be considered as the markers which show a susceptibility towards cancer.