COMPLEX ODONTOMA MANIFESTING AS PROGRESSIVE TRISMUS: A RARE PRESENTATION

Karthikeya Patil, Sanjay C. J., Meera Theenathayalan, Varusha Sharon Christopher

 

Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, JSS Dental College and Hospital, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research.

Karnataka, India.

T

he case report highlights a rare presentation of complex odontoma causing progressive trismus and pain in a young adult.

Purpose. To emphasize the significance of early diagnosis and the role of advanced imaging in managing such cases effectively.

Materials and Methods. The case involves a 22-year-old female who presented with a 15-day history of progressive swelling in the right mandibular region, pain, and limited mouth opening. Clinical examinations revealed diffuse, firm swelling with trismus and local signs of infection. Panoramic radiography identified a radiopaque mass near the mandibular third molar and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used for detailed lesion visualization and to assess its relationship with nearby structures.

Results. CBCT scan demonstrated a well-defined, heterogeneous, radiopaque lesion encroaching upon the mandibular third molar's eruption space. The lesion caused forward deviation of the nerve canal, increasing the risk of nerve damage during surgical removal. The diagnosis of a complex odontoma was confirmed based on radiographic and clinical findings. Surgical intervention was recommended to remove the odontoma and the impacted molar.

Discussion. Complex odontomas are benign tumors that often present as asymptomatic lesions, but they can lead to severe complications like impaction, infection, and trismus. Early detection and comprehensive radiographic assessment are crucial for treatment planning. The case emphasizes the importance of CBCT for accurate diagnosis and risk assessment. Literature review indicates that young adults are commonly affected, and odontomas frequently impede the eruption of third molars.

Conclusions. Timely identification and surgical management of complex odontomas are critical to prevent secondary infections and functional impairments. The case underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach involving dental specialists and radiologists for effective patient care and favorable outcomes.

 

Keywords: odontoma, trismus, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), mandibular impaction, odontogenic tumors.

 

Corresponding author: Sanjay C. J., e-mail: Этот e-mail адрес защищен от спам-ботов, для его просмотра у Вас должен быть включен Javascript

For citation: Karthikeya Patil, Sanjay C. J., Meera Theenathayalan, Varusha Sharon Christopher. Complex odontoma manifesting as progressive trismus: a rare presentation. REJR 2025; 15(1):219-225. DOI: 10.21569/2222-7415-2025-15-1-219-225.

Received:        10.04.24 Accepted:       22.10.24