Applications of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of soft tissue swellings of the cervicofacial region

Purpose: To determine the accuracy; sensitivity; specificity and prediction values of ultrasound as a means of diagnosis of cervico-facial soft tissue swellings. Materials and methods: We carried out ultrasonographic evaluation of 76 consecutive cases of cervico-facial soft tissue swellings that presented at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex; Ile-Ife; Nigeria from August 2002 to November 2003. The patients' demographics and relevant clinical information were obtained. Ultrasonographic evaluation was done using the B-mode transcutaneous ultrasonic imaging device with a transducer frequency of 5MHz. All the lesions were subjected to histopathological examination. Results: There were 43(56.6) males and 33(43.4) females whose ages ranged from 2 weeks to 70 years (mean + SD; 22 + 19.7 years). Histologically; tumours constituted the highest percentage of swellings (35.5); followed by cysts (26.3). Males were more predominant in all classes of swellings except benign tumours. The accuracy of ultrasound in the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma was 80and 100for both adenocarcinoma and hemangioma. It was also 100for majority of the cysts and HIV associated salivary gland swellings. The sensitivity of ultrasound in the diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma was 80and 100for adenocarcinoma; hemangioma; all the cysts and HIV associated swellings. Ultrasound was also 100specific in the diagnosis of monomorphic adenoma and hemangioma. Conclusion: Ultrasound is a useful diagnostic tool for cervicofacial soft tissue swellings. The accuracy of diagnosis is enhanced by the characteristics of the probe and the experience of the sonologist

Mouth opening among Nigerians

The maximum mouth opening of 512 Nigerian adults aged 18-35 years were measured using a pair of special dividers and a graduating scale. Chewing; yawning habits and other factors such as facial pain and swelling were also considered and compared with investigations carried out elsewhere

Diastema in Nigerian Society

The frequency of occurrence of diastema and its acceptability was studied. Diastema occurs more among females and Nigerians primarily regard diastema as a thong of beauty. Some even go to have it created for them artificially. Of the various forms; maxillary midline diastema is the most prevalent while mandibular midline is the least. There is preference for the midline anterior diastema and therapy to close the diastema was considered unnecessary. Lateral diastema is not as much favoured. There is also an indication that diastema runs in some families