Radiology · single question
A panoramic radiograph shows a radiolucent lesion associated with an impacted third molar. What is the most likely diagnosis?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Dental Follicle
✓ B) Dental Follicle is correct.
The dental follicle (pericoronal space) normally appears as a 2–3 mm radiolucent halo around the crown of an impacted tooth — this is the normal follicular space and does not represent pathology. A follicular space exceeding 5 mm suggests a dentigerous cyst or other pathology. AOT and ameloblastoma are also pericoronal but have more specific features (AOT = 'snowflake' calcifications; ameloblastoma = multilocular 'soap bubble' pattern or larger unilocular). In a normal pano, this halo = follicle.
The dental follicle (pericoronal space) normally appears as a 2–3 mm radiolucent halo around the crown of an impacted tooth — this is the normal follicular space and does not represent pathology. A follicular space exceeding 5 mm suggests a dentigerous cyst or other pathology. AOT and ameloblastoma are also pericoronal but have more specific features (AOT = 'snowflake' calcifications; ameloblastoma = multilocular 'soap bubble' pattern or larger unilocular). In a normal pano, this halo = follicle.