Jawbone changes in chronic kidney disease patients in pretransplant stage: A radiomorphometric analysis using panoramic radiography

Aim: Chronic kidney disease is characterized by several systemic complications that result from a profound hydroelectrolytic, metabolic, and immunological imbalance. Abnormalities in the calcium and phosphorus metabolism are highly prevalent among renal patients and increase the systemic complications. This study aimed to assess the risk of low bone density in renal patients through evaluation of panoramic radiographic exams by radiomorphometric indices: mandibular cortical width (MCW), panoramic mandibular index (PMI), and mandibular alveolar bone reabsorption degree (M/M Ratio). Material and Methods: A sample of 60 panoramic radiographs: 20 adult pre-transplant renal patients, case group (G1) and 40 controls, paired by sex and age (G2) were evaluated. The morphometric measurements MCW, PMI and M/M ratio were measured. The radiographs were analyzed regarding dental absence, calcification of the style-hyoid ligament (CSHL), and idiopathic radiopaque areas. Results: Radiomorphometric indices were significantly lower among pre-transplant females (p<0.05) and no significant difference was observed between males in the test and control group. A higher frequency of enostoses was observed among females and of CSHC calcification among males was observed in the pre-transplant patients (p>0.05). Conclusions: These results suggest that pre-transplant females may present with more pronounced jawbone osteopenia.