Metastatic tumors (ill defined) .

  • Metastatic tumors in the jaws are usually arise from primary lesions below the clavicle (breast, lungs, kidney, thyroid and prostate).
  • Metastatic tumors are more common in patients over 50 years of age.
  • The mandible is the most common location, followed by the maxillary sinus and hard palate.
  • Radiographically, metastatic lesions are usually depicted as single or multiple radiolucencies with ill defined borders. In lesions arising from the prostate or from the breast, new neoplastic bone tissue may be formed and the radiographic picture may be that of a diffused mixed lesion.
  • Common symptoms and signs are: pain, swelling, anesthesia or paresthesia. Large lesions can lead to pathological fractures.

Differential Diagnosis

Case 1

Metastatic tumor (primary neoplasia in lungs)

Case 2

Metastatic tumor of prostate. Cropped panoramic image shows ill defined radiolucency in the angle of the mandible. CT images showing periosteal reaction. SPECT shows multiple lesions in the skull, spine and chest.

Case 3

Metastatic lesion from the breast. The patient came with swelling and pain.