Osteodystrophic lesions of the jaws – a review

Jaw bone differs from other bones in several aspects. Embryologically, it is unique due to its development from cells migrating from the embryonal neuroectoderm. Anatomically it houses the tooth germs. With both unique features in the jaws, diseases occur that are not seen in any other part of the skeleton. Tooth-related jawbone diseases can be divided in cysts, odontogenic tumors, fibroosseous lesions, metabolic lesions, bleeding disorders, microbial lesions, giant cell lesions and bone tumors. Osteodystrophic lesions share many similar histopathologic features. Thus, a definitive diagnosis of osteodystrophic lesions requires correlation of the histologic features with the clinical, radiographic, and intraoperative findings. Although subclassification of osteodystrophic lesions occasionally can be challenging, a proper diagnosis is essential to ensure adequate and appropriate treatment.