Multiple osteoid osteoma in the 7th dorsal vertebra

The authors report a case of osteoid osteoma localised in both laminae of D7. No bilateral case of this type has previously been reported in the literature.

Diagnosis and treatment of cervical instability

Instability of the cervical spine gives rise to vertebral and neurological symptoms which may be progressive. The principal causes of instability are: trauma, sequelae of laminectomy, malformations, vertebral infections, rheumatoid arthritis, primary tumours (benign and malignant), metastases, and chronic degenerative disease of the discs. Each of these forms of instability must be identified and, depending on the symptoms and pathogenesis, is capable of responding to the appropriate treatment.

Fracture of glenoid fossa following mandibular trauma

A case of glenoid fossa fracture secondary to mandibular trauma is reported. Subjectively, this injury is characterized by pain in the temporomandibular region of the injured side and by mandibular function impotence. Objectively, there is disappearance of the mandibular condyle from the pretragic region, mandibular lateral deviation toward the fractured side, and premature occlusal contacts on the injured side. The injury can be definitively diagnosed only with a temporomandibular joint radiographic examination of them, which includes a lateral and front-back projection stratigraphy. The surgical techniques currently used in these cases are also discussed.

Giant cell tumour in a vertebra affected by Paget's disease of bone

A case of giant cell tumor in a vertebra affected by Paget's disease of bone is presented. This lesion, which is quite rare, has usually been observed in the bones of the skull and face, and is benign. It is probably hyperplastic rather than neoplastic in nature. Radiotherapy is contraindicated, since bone affected by osteitis deformans may possibly become malignant.