Radiology · single question
What finding on a PA radiograph is characteristic of sickle cell anemia?
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Correct answer: A. Stepladder pattern (perpendicular trabeculae)
Sickle cell anemia causes a characteristic 'stepladder' or 'staircase' trabecular pattern on dental radiographs (trabecular bone arranged in right angles). Paget's disease = cotton wool. Fibrous dysplasia = ground glass. Orange peel = not a standard radiographic finding. The stepladder trabecular pattern is pathognomonic for sickle cell in dental boards.