Work

Aggressive Mandibular Squamous Cell Carcinoma Mimicking Periodontal Disease in a Non‐Transplanted Patient With Fanconi Anemia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Fanconi anemia (FA) is associated with markedly increased risk for early-onset oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). METHODS: We report an aggressive mandibular squamous cell carcinoma in a 26-year-old non-transplanted woman with FA initially interpreted as localized periodontal disease adjacent to a tongue leukoplakia. RESULTS: Initial examination demonstrated mild gingival inflammation and localized alveolar bone loss involving the right mandibular molars. Forty-five days later, the patient returned with facial asymmetry, severe bone destruction, and grade III tooth mobility. Cone beam computed tomography revealed extensive mandibular osteolysis, and biopsy confirmed squamous cell carcinoma with extensive intraosseous involvement. Despite surgical treatment, the patient died 3 months later. CONCLUSIONS: This case highlights the potential limitations of surveillance strategies focused predominantly on visible mucosal lesions and reinforces that rapidly progressive periodontal-like destruction in patients with FA should raise immediate suspicion for malignancy.

Source: Head & Neck

DOI: 10.1002/hed.70446

Authors: Cassius Carvalho Torres‐Pereira, Laura Grein Cavalcanti, Marta Aparecida Alberton Nuernberg, Juliana Lucena Schussel, José Miguel Amenábar Céspedes

Institution: Universidade Federal do Paraná

Language: English

Topic: Head and Neck Cancer Studies

Subfield: Otorhinolaryngology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,760