Variações anatômicas do complexo bucomaxilofacial que mimetizam lesões ósseas: uma série de casos

Abstract

Introduction: The clinical examination associated with complementary tests are the basis for establishing the diagnosis. In the context of complementary imaging exams, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) represents a relevant tool as it allows more precise and detailed assessments of the oral and maxillofacial region. Objective: The objective of this study was to identify and describe anatomical variations of the oral and maxillofacial complex that mimic bone lesions. The presence of these structures may increase the possibility of errors in diagnosis and consequently in the treatment plan, and the role of CBCT as an essential tool for differential diagnosis. Case series: This case series reported 9 patients with anatomical variations that mimicked bone lesions, of which the differential diagnosis was obtained through CBCT, as pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus, extensions of the maxillary sinus, Stafne's bone defects, reduced thickness of the mandibular symphyses and morphological variation of mandible head. Conclusion: Thus, CBCT seems to be a relevant tool that optimizes the differential diagnosis between variations in normality and bone lesions, favoring both the diagnosis and the design of the treatment plan.