Panoramic radiography for detection of bilateral carotid calcified atheroma: An unusual Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Atherosclerosis is a progressive inflammatory disease that can trigger serious medical consequences like acute myocardial infarction or stroke. Case Report: The purpose of this study is to report an unusual case of finding calcified atheromatous plaques in the carotid arteries bilaterally using a panoramic radiography (PR). A 75-year-old female with a morbid history, attends the Teaching Dental Clinic of the Pontifical Catholic University with complementary exams. PR showed well-defined radiopaque structures adjacent to C4. Using a Doppler ultrasound, the presence of calcified atheromas in the right and left carotid arteries were confirmed. The patient was informed of these findings and is currently under medical follow-up. Conclusion: PR is a useful complementary resource in the detection of atherosclerotic plaques of the upper carotid region.

Keywords

• plaque
• atherosclerotic
• atheroma; atherosclerosis
• radiography
• panoramic
• carotid arteries
• dental clinics