American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) Dental Hygiene Licensing Examination 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Cherubism is a rare genetic condition primarily affecting the jawbone, and is most notably characterized by the presence of bilateral radiolucencies in the mandible and, to a lesser extent, the maxilla. This unique feature is due to the overgrowth of bone in children, which can lead to a characteristic swollen appearance of the face, often giving it a cherubic look.

The radiolucent lesions are visible on X-rays as areas devoid of bone density, and they typically manifest in all four quadrants over time. This feature helps in differentiating cherubism from other conditions that might exhibit similar symptoms but do not involve the same pattern of bone involvement.

Other options do not encompass the defining characteristics of cherubism. Bone fragility, while a concern in some conditions, is not a hallmark of cherubism; instead, the bone may be less fragile due to the excessive growth. Thyroid abnormalities are unrelated to cherubism as it specifically pertains to the jaw. Lastly, a deficiency of alkaline phosphatase is associated with metabolic bone diseases rather than cherubism, which is related to a genetic condition with a distinct presentation. This clarity in the characteristic features of cherubism reinforces understanding for those preparing for the