Multiple Idiopathic External Apical Root Resorption: A Case Report of a Rare Entity

TL;DR

This case report describes a rare dental condition where a young woman's tooth roots were gradually destroyed without a clear cause.

Contribution

The novelty lies in using advanced imaging techniques like nano CT and SEM to investigate this rare condition.

Findings

The patient showed extensive root resorption with no identifiable local or systemic cause.

Advanced diagnostic methods provided new insights into the condition's characteristics.

Comparative analysis with previous literature highlights the rarity and diagnostic challenges of MIEARR.

Abstract

Idiopathic root resorption is characterized by the gradual destruction of tooth roots without a clear cause; the possible underlying factors include genetic predispositions, immune system abnormalities, or environmental influences. This case report highlights an unusual instance of a 27-year-old young female patient who presented with multiple decayed teeth; the orthopantomographic examination incidentally revealed extensive root resorptions. Thorough biochemical investigations such as acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and triiodothyronine (T3), as well as calcium, were within normal limits, with no identifiable local or systemic factors, leading to a diagnosis of idiopathic root resorption.

Diagnosing multiple idiopathic external apical root resorption (MIEARR) is particularly challenging, underscoring the importance of regular monitoring and comprehensive dental care to prevent further deterioration. The uniqueness of our case report lies in its investigative approach, employing advanced diagnostic techniques such as nano CT and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It also includes a comparative analysis of cases previously reported in the literature.

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