Brown tumor of the jaw as a rare manifestation of hyperparathyroidism: Two case reports and literature review

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

Brown tumor is a giant cell focal lesion of bone associated with hyperparathyroidism, even primary or secondary. Differential diagnosis of these lesions from others giant cell lesions of the jaw bone is mandatory for the correct treatment of the patient.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present here two cases of brown tumor affecting the jaws by describing their clinical aspects and radiographic features, diagnostic criteria and treatment of this disease.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Brown tumor is one of the lesions that develop in patients with hyperparathyroidism or renal failure. Skeletal bones including maxillo-facial ones can be the site of this lesion, also radiographic and histopathological exams of the jaw lesion are not sufficient to determine the diagnosis, which requires laboratory tests and radiographic examination.

CONCLUSION

Dental surgeon should be aware of oral manifestations associated with systemic diseases, hence the importance of careful physical examination and thorough investigation for the diagnosis and treatment success. This article aims to illustrate the management strategy to aid clinicians in suspected cases of brown tumor.

Navigating motherhood choices in the context of rheumatoid arthritis: women's stories

OBJECTIVE

Planning a family is a complex decision. For women with chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), there are additional concerns about their own and their baby's health. This qualitative study examined women's experiences of negotiating their family decisions in the context of RA.

METHODS

A qualitative study was conducted in 14 women who provided a written account of their motherhood decisions and experiences. Those 'stories' were then thematically analysed.

RESULTS

RA was found to affect women's motherhood decisions and experiences. Three key themes were identified for both the process of decision making and the experience of that decision: capacity, uncertainty and acceptance. Only two of the women decided not to have children, while for others the decision centred on changing expectations from the number of children they planned to have, to parenting within the restrictions of their physical abilities.

CONCLUSION

While many women struggled through the negotiations of their motherhood choices, those who chose to have children reported great joy in that experience. The challenges faced by women with RA contemplating motherhood, however, highlight the need for understanding and support from health professionals and the provision of resources so that women can make informed choices.