Periapical Pathology Histology — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardOral PathologyPeriapical Pathology HistologyNDEB AFK

Palisaded macrophages surrounding a central area of necrosis on histological examination of a periapical lesion are most characteristic of which condition?

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Correct answer: E — Periapical granuloma

A true periapical granuloma (granulation tissue-based periapical pathology) may contain granulomatous inflammation with palisaded macrophages (epithelioid histiocytes) surrounding necrotic debris. However, the term 'periapical granuloma' is a misnomer in most cases, as the majority are composed of chronically inflamed granulation tissue rather than true granulomatous inflammation. When true granulomas are present, foreign body reaction, actinomycosis, or systemic granulomatous disease should be considered.

Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016