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Calcifying Odontogenic Cyst — NDEB AFK MCQ

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HardOral PathologyCalcifying Odontogenic CystNDEB AFK

A 12-year-old presents with a well-defined radiolucency anterior to the mandibular premolars containing a tooth-like structure (compound odontoma was previously removed). Histology shows ghost cells and calcifications. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Calcifying odontogenic cyst (Gorlin cyst)

The calcifying odontogenic cyst (Gorlin cyst) is characterised histologically by the presence of ghost cells (large eosinophilic epithelial cells lacking nuclei) and areas of calcification. Radiographically, it may appear as a well-defined uni- or multilocular radiolucency with varying degrees of calcified material. It may be associated with odontomas.

Reference: Neville – Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, 4th ed., 2016