Computed tomography findings in radiation-induced osteosarcoma of the jaws

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to report the CT appearances of radiation-induced jaw osteosarcomas (RIJOS) following therapeutic irradiation.Study designThe CT studies of 7 subjects with RIJOS were reviewed retrospectively.ResultsRIJOS developed at 3 to 14 years following radiotherapy. Four patients had tumors in the maxilla and 3 in the mandible. Five tumors were osteoblastic, with 1 osteolytic and 1 mixed lesions. Osteoid tumor matrix mineralization was identified in 6 subjects. Periosteal reaction was demonstrated in 6 cases. All subjects showed a soft tissue extension component beyond the area of bone destruction.ConclusionCT is a useful tool to identify RIJOS and plays an important role in preoperative assessment of the extent of the tumor.