A panoramic radiograph shows a well-defined, clearly corticated radiolucency in the mandibular ramus. Which lesion can be EXCLUDED from the differential?

Correct answer: A. Osteomyelitis

• A. Correct. Osteomyelitis produces ill-defined, moth-eaten, poorly demarcated radiolucency, often with sequestra and periosteal reaction — the opposite of a clearly defined corticated border.
• B. Ameloblastoma typically shows well-defined, often multilocular 'soap-bubble' borders in the ramus region.
• C. OKC classically presents as a well-defined corticated radiolucency in the posterior mandible/ramus.
• D. A traumatic (simple) bone cyst is well-defined and scallops between roots.