The role of MRI and CT in diagnosis and treatment planning of cherubism: a 13-year follow-up case report

Authors:

ABSTRACT

Aim

Cherubism is characterised by mesenchymal alterations during the development of the jaws secondary to
perivascular fibrosis. According to the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle, it is important to avoid
conditions where the amount of radiation used is more than that needed for the procedure, because there is no benefit from
unnecessary radiation. However, the use of MRI has been poorly studied in cherubism.

Methods

The patient underwent head and neck MRI and 3D CT for imaging assessment.

Results

MRI
is necessary to evaluate the extension of dysplastic tissue and the cystic part of the lesions. Bone window CT only allows
evaluation of strong densitometric alterations of cherubism lesions. Moreover, on radiographic film it is not always possible
to distinguish fibrous tissue from mucous pseudocystic tissue. By contrast, these differences are readily evident on MRI.

Conclusion

MRI, in addition to other traditional radiographs and CT, could be useful in helping the clinician in the
diagnosis and treatment of cherubism.

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