Dual-energy CT quantitative parameters can improve the performance of differential diagnostics between Ameloblastomas and Odontogenic Keratocysts with solid components – A systematic review.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i9.2227Keywords:
Ameloblastomas, Dual-energy computed tomography, Odontogenic keratocysts, Jaw neoplasms, Iodine quantification, CT imaging techniques, Spectral CTAbstract
Background
Technical constraints and a laborious workflow have likely led to underutilization of dual-energy CT. Clinical radiologists need a better understanding of the benefits of its benefits over single-energy CT. The fundamental idea of DECT involves acquiring data at two different X-ray energy levels to differentiate materials. Various acquisition techniques are available, including dual-tube systems, fast voltage switching, dual-layer detectors, split-filter techniques, and sequential scanning, each with its own pros and cons for clinical application. Up to 20% of cystic jaw lesions are OKCs, which are epithelial-lined cysts that are frequently linked to a nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome. Ameloblastomas (AMs) and odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) are common, benign jaw lesions often discovered accidentally during routine radiographic examinations. Although benign, they can cause significant pain and tissue damage. Diagnosis typically involves clinical exams, radiography (such as panoramic X-rays, CT scans, or CBCT), and a subsequent biopsy. A key challenge is that AMs and OKCs look identical on conventional imaging, making primary differentiation by a radiologist difficult and highlighting a potential area where advanced techniques like DECT could offer improved diagnostic capabilities.
Material and Methods
Major databases such as Medline were explored through a detailed literature search, resulting in a systematic review pertaining to Dual-energy CT quantitative parameters that can improve the performance of differential diagnosis between ameloblastomas and odontogenic keratocysts with solid components.
Results
Ten original research scientific articles, dated between 2020 and 2024, about the mentioned topic were highlighted.
Conclusions
The ability to distinguish ameloblastomas from OKCs with solid components is much enhanced when DECT quantitative parameters are combined with traditional imaging features, providing a possible image-based diagnostic tool for clinical diagnosis. Detailed information regarding the DECT quantitative parameters can improve the performance of differential diagnosis between AMs and OKC, as discussed in this systematic review.
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