Hypophosphatasia Cementum Deficiency — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardPaediatric DentistryHypophosphatasia Cementum DeficiencyNDEB AFK

Which of the following conditions is characterised by premature exfoliation of primary teeth with intact roots and reduced or absent cementum?

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Correct answer: C — Hypophosphatasia

Hypophosphatasia is characterised by premature exfoliation of primary teeth (often the incisors) with intact roots and severely reduced or absent cementum due to deficient tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP). Without cementum, the PDL cannot attach to the root surface, causing tooth mobility and loss. Serum alkaline phosphatase is characteristically low (diagnostic clue). Papillon-Lefèvre also causes premature tooth loss but through severe periodontal destruction (not cementum deficiency) and with keratoderma.

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