Radiographic features help differentiate benign from malignant bone lesions. A 'wide zone of transition' (ill-defined margin between normal and abnormal bone) indicates rapid, aggressive growth, typical of malignancy. 'Cortical destruction' and the presence of a 'soft tissue mass' also suggest aggressive, malignant processes. A 'solid, uninterrupted periosteal reaction' (e.g., a thick, uniform layer of new bone) indicates a slow-growing process, allowing the periosteum time to lay down organized bone, which is characteristic of benign lesions or chronic inflammation. In contrast, interrupted or spiculated periosteal reactions (like 'sunburst' or 'onion-skin') suggest rapid, aggressive growth.
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