Sclerosing odontogenic carcinoma (SOC) is a primary intraosseous carcinoma of the jaw that was listed as a separate entity for the first time in the latest version of the World Health Organization classification of Head and Neck Tumors (2017). In this report, we present a case of SOC involving a circuitous diagnostic process because of the inadequately detailed biopsy findings and inherent impression based on the imaging manifestations. Through an extensive literature review, the histopathological and immunohistochemical features of the disease were briefly summarized. Radiological findings of SOC have been characterized in detail, and an imaging classification scheme has been proposed to further discuss the diversity of radiographic features. Due to the rarity of the disease, a comprehensive understanding of SOC is needed, and close collaboration between clinicians, radiologists, and pathologists is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis.

In this study, the tumor-targeted MRI contrast agent was prepared with gelatinase-stimuli nanoparticles (NPs) and Omniscan (Omn) by double emulsion method. The size, distribution, morphology, stability, drug loading, and encapsulation efficiency of Omn-NPs were characterized. The macroscopic and microscopic morphological changes of NPs in response to gelatinases (collagenases IV) were observed. The MR imaging using Omn-NPs as a contrast agent was evaluated in the oral squamous cell carcinoma models with Omn as a control. We found clear evidence that the Omn-NPs were transformed by gelatinases and the signal of T1-weighted MRI sequence showed that the tumor-to-background ratio was significantly higher in Omn-NPs than in Omn. The peak point of time after injection was much later for Omn-NPs than Omn. This study demonstrates that Omn-NPs hold great promise as MRI contrast agent with improved specificity and prolonged circulation time based on a relatively simple and universal strategy.