Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH): Detection on dental radiologic examinations in two older adults and overview of the literature.

BACKGROUND: Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a potentially serious osteopathic disorder associated with coalescing ossifications of the anterior vertebrae and may be concomitant with a constellation of symptomatology and systemic comorbidities. There is limited dental literature describing this finding on panoramic radiographs and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.

CASE PRESENTATIONS: Two case reports of DISH are provided. One patient manifested extensive ossifications along the cervical vertebrae and consequent episodes of dysphagia and hoarseness. The other affected patient's cervical ossification was found at an earlier stage of formation and without symptomatology. Panoramic radiography, cervical spine radiography, and CBCT examinations have been provided.

CONCLUSION: Attending dental healthcare practitioners should carefully evaluate all areas of interest and surrounding fields of view when taking panoramic radiographs and CBCT scans for manifestations of DISH and other potential disorders of the cervical vertebrae. A suspected radiologic finding of DISH should prompt timely referral for comprehensive medical assessment to mitigate neurologic deficits and other comorbidities.