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Malignant Jaw Tumour Radiology — NDEB AFK MCQ

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EasyRadiology & ImagingMalignant Jaw Tumour RadiologyNDEB AFK

Which radiographic sign is most suggestive of a malignant tumour of the jaw?

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Correct answer: AIll-defined ragged borders with moth-eaten or permeative bone destruction

Ill-defined, ragged, moth-eaten, or permeative borders suggest aggressive, rapidly growing lesions — typically malignant tumours (osteosarcoma, metastatic carcinoma, multiple myeloma) or aggressive infections (osteomyelitis). Malignant lesions grow too rapidly for the surrounding bone to mount a reactive (corticated) response. Additional suggestive features include periosteal reaction (sunburst, onion-skin, Codman triangle), root resorption, tooth displacement, widened PDL space, and cortical destruction.

Reference: White & Pharoah – Oral Radiology: Principles and Interpretation, 8th ed., 2019