Pixel optical densitometry - a novel quantification tool using image analysis software-based histogram study

Introduction: The evaluation of intensity for a region of interest on photograph/ radiograph is subjective owing to its high inter/intra-observer variability. Pixel Optical Densitometry (POD) is a novel technique introduced to assess the density of the lesion using Image J analysis quantifying the density/colour of a given region. Till date, assessment of grey scale of a lesion on radiograph and colour intensity of a stained nucleus/ cytoplasm or connective tissue matrix remain subjective. There is no known cost effective technique to give a quantitative value to amount of bone destroyed by the lesion. Although CT and MRI have Hounsfield units to quantify the mineral/water content, such a feature is not available for a digital radiograph. The present study used this innovative technique of “Pixel Optical Densitometry” to quantify the degree of hard tissue/ bone with a set of numbers making it reproducible and objective. Materials and Methods: Two broad groups of four cases each of Unicystic Ameloblastoma (UCA) and Keratocystic Odontogenic Tumour (KCOT) of orthopantamograph were assessed for difference in the variations of density of the luminal content (intensity of radiolucency) within the lesion tissue. This study wascompared between both pathological lesions using students’ t tests. Results and Conclusions: Pixel Optical Densitometry (POD) procedure could be used as an innovative tool to differentiate between both odontogenic lesions and thus aid a surgeon to set a treatment protocol pre-operatively. Hence, this standardized efficient technique enlightens the doctors/ dentist in fields of medicine, dentistry and in particular the most awaiting response in recovery of patients in the field of oncology. Clinical significance: Pixel Optical Densitometry (POD) procedure is an innovative standardized efficient technique to differentiate between odontogenic lesions and aid a surgeon to set a treatment protocol pre-operatively in fields of medicine and dentistry with emphasis to field of oncology.