Radiographic screening of edentulous patients: sense or nonsense? A risk-benefit analysis.
The benefits of radiographic examination of symptomless edentulous patients are presented. Based on data from the literature, an estimate of the risk of fatal malignancy from such a procedure is provided. Because the benefits are considerable and the risks low, a recommendation for selective screening of edentulous patients is made.
Keur
J J
JJ
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007575:Jaw, Edentulous / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D007953:Leukemia, Radiation-Induced / Q000209:etiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009381:Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / Q000209:etiology; D011336:Probability; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic / Q000009:adverse effects; D012306:Risk