ADVANCED IMAGING IN EVALUATION OF A CENTRAL MANDIBULAR HEMANGIOMA

We present a case of histologically-verified central cavernous haemang ioma. The conventional radiological films as well as the computed tomo graphic (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of this les ion are described. Plain films showed many of the typical radiological signs of haemangioma, whereas CT was primarily useful for illustratin g the bony components of the tumour as well as delineating soft tissue extensions and bony defects not normally visible with plain film exam ination. MRI proved particularly useful, demonstrating the vascular na ture and flow voids representative of feeder vessels and delineating t he true extent of the lesion. The literature pertaining to the imaging features of central haemangioma is reviewed and the complementary use of plain films, CT and MRI described. To our knowledge, this is the f irst report detailing the MRI characteristics of a central mandibular haemangioma.