MJDF Oral & Dental Pathology

Question 1

What is the histological hallmark of an odontogenic keratocyst (OKC)?

Accepted Answer

Thin parakeratinised epithelium (6–8 cell layers) with a basal layer of palisaded cells and a corrugated surface

Answer

OKCs have a characteristic thin parakeratinised lining with a regular 6–8 cell layer thickness, palisaded basal cells with reverse nuclear polarity, and a corrugated surface — hallmarks used in histological diagnosis.

Question 2

What is the most common benign odontogenic tumour?

Accepted Answer

Ameloblastoma

Answer

Odontoma (compound and complex types) is the most common benign odontogenic tumour or hamartoma; ameloblastoma is the most common true neoplasm of odontogenic origin.

Question 3

What radiographic feature distinguishes a radicular cyst from a periapical granuloma?

Accepted Answer

Corticated (well-defined) border around a fluid-filled radiolucency in radicular cyst; granuloma is diffuse

Answer

Radicular cysts typically appear as well-defined radiolucencies with a corticated border; periapical granulomas tend to be smaller, ill-defined, and lack a corticated margin, though histology is required for definitive diagnosis.

Question 4

What is the most common oral manifestation of HIV infection?

Accepted Answer

Pseudomembranous candidiasis (oral thrush) and linear gingival erythema

Answer

Pseudomembranous candidiasis is the most common oral manifestation, often presenting early in HIV disease; oral hairy leukoplakia (lateral tongue) is characteristic, while linear gingival erythema is also specific to HIV-associated periodontal disease.

Question 5

What is the pathological significance of a low-grade mucoepidermoid carcinoma?

Accepted Answer

Most common malignant salivary gland tumour; low-grade has good prognosis with surgery

Answer

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma is the most common malignant salivary gland tumour; low-grade tumours contain more mucous cells and have an excellent prognosis with complete surgical excision.

MJDF Part 1 Practice Test

MJDF Part 1 Practice Test

MJDF Oral & Dental Pathology