About this Research Topic

Background

A rarity may be defined as ‘a rare thing, especially one having particular value.’ While there is no universally accepted definition of a rare disease1 , when presented, they typically pose a unique challenge for management in healthcare. Specifically, a rare disease prompts us to consider whether its rarity constitutes an independent reason to aid those who suffer from it, and if so, what techniques may be appropriate to utilize.

Veterinary dental and oromaxillofacial medicine and surgery has experienced a trajectory of evidence-based advances in diagnosis and management of wide-range of disorders. However, for rare diseases, providing evidence-based practices and experiences is of benefit in informing our medical community and to minimize patient morbidity and mortality.

The objective of this Research Topic entitled ‘Noteworthy rarities in dentistry and oromaxillofacial medicine and surgery’ is to focus on experience and knowledge of rare disorders that were managed via innovative and non-innovative ways utilizing advanced diagnostic imaging, histopathology, and other methods. Those are aimed to be case-based and harnessing best-knowledge and resources, available at this juncture, to manage challenging rare cases.

This Research Topic welcomes in particular, but is not limited to, the following article types: Mini Review, Perspective, Case Report, Brief Research Report.

1. Richter T, Nestler-Parr S, Babela R, et al. Rare Disease Terminology and Definitions-A Systematic Global Review: Report of the ISPOR Rare Disease Special Interest Group. Value Health. 2015;18(6):906-914.

Keywords: Rarities, dentistry, maxillofacial, craniofacial, oral medicine, surgery, reconstruction, dogs, cats

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