Dental OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) Practice Exam

In African American patients, decreased trabeculation in jaws can indicate which condition?

1. Sickle cell anemia

2. Osteoporosis

3. Primary hyperparathyroidism

4. Paget's disease

The correct answer is: Sickle cell anemia

Decreased trabeculation in the jaws of African American patients can often indicate sickle cell anemia. This occurs because sickle cell anemia can lead to a number of hematological and bone changes, including altered bone marrow composition and reduced trabecular bone density. As the disease progresses, patients may experience chronic pain and osteonecrosis, particularly in the jaws, which can further contribute to changes in bone architecture. In relation to the other conditions, osteoporosis is more generalized and not specifically tied to decreased trabeculation in the jaw for African Americans. Primary hyperparathyroidism typically presents with changes in bone density but is not specifically characterized by decreased trabeculation in the jaw, while Paget's disease usually leads to increased bone turnover, resulting in a different radiographic appearance rather than decreased trabeculation. Therefore, the recognition of decreased trabeculation as a potential indicator of sickle cell anemia highlights the need for vigilant assessment in dental radiology and understanding systemic conditions that can affect oral health in specific populations.