Multiple Stafne Bone Cavities: A Diagnostic Dilemma

From Volume 27, Issue 10, December 2000 | Pages 494-497

Authors

Carole A. Boyle

FDS RCS, MMedSci, DGDP(UK)

Demonstrator in Sedation and Special Care Dentistry, Guy's, King's and St Thomas' School of Dentistry, London

Articles by Carole A. Boyle

Keith Horner

BChD, MSc, PhD, FDS RCPS(Glasg), FRCR DDR

Senior Lecturer/Honorary Consultant in Dental and Maxillofacial Radiology, University Dental Hospital of Manchester

Articles by Keith Horner

Paul Coulthard

Lecturer in Oral Surgery, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Dental Hospital of Manchester

Articles by Paul Coulthard

Garry J.P. Fleming

BSc, PhD

Research Fellow in Sedation and Special Care Dentistry, Guy's, King's and St Thomas' School of Dentistry, London

Articles by Garry J.P. Fleming

Abstract

Salivary gland inclusions in the mandible are relatively uncommon. If defects occur they are generally unilateral, although bilateral cases have been reported. This article describes an unusual case in which the dental panoramic tomogram revealed three radiolucent areas in the mandible. The diagnosis of the two posterior radiolucencies was confirmed as Stafne's bone cavities but a definite diagnosis for the parasymphyseal lesion remained elusive, even after surgery. However, Stafne's bone cavities are known to occur in this region and this diagnosis remains the most probable.

Article