Evaluation of Prevalence and Dimension of Pineal Gland Calcification by Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and dimensions of pineal gland calcification on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in patients undergoing dental treatment. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively examined CBCT scans in which the pineal gland appeared in the field of view and noted the presence of pineal gland calcification (PGC). Anteroposterior, lateral, and area measurements of the PGCs were made by the same observer. Variables such as age and gender were recorded for each patient from previous clinical examination data. Results: Among 220 patients (135 females, 85 males), the prevalence of pineal gland calcification was 33.6%. There was no significant difference between males and females (p>0.05). PGC was strongly associated with older age (p<0.001). The PGCs had mean anteroposterior and lateral dimensions of 2.56±0.98 mm and 3.39±1.29 mm, respectively, and the mean total calcified area was 5.45±3.75 mm2. Conclusions: This study showed no correlation between age, gender, and PGC size. However, the average calcified area was found to be significantly larger in men than women.