Metastatic Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma to the Mandibular Condyle: A Rare Clinical Presentation

Abstract

Metastatic disease to the oral cavity is rare, representing only 1-8% of oral malignancies, and involvement of the mandibular condyle is even less prevalent. In a recent literature review of 796 cases of metastatic disease to the oral cavity, only 39 (13.8%) involved the condyle. This report is a unique case of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma to the condyle. There are only 5 documented cases of metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma to the oral cavity, one of which metastasized to the condyle. This is an important case because metastatic lesions to the condyle may mimic temporomandibular joint disorders making clinical diagnosis and decision-making extremely challenging for the oral and maxillofacial surgeon. The requirement for arrival at an appropriate and prompt diagnosis is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment regimens and improved outcomes. Additionally, in approximately 33% of cases, the oral metastatic lesion may be the first indication of an undiscovered distant primary tumor, making timely evaluation and treatment critical from an oncologic perspective.