Nasopalatine Duct Cyst Radiology — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateOral PathologyNasopalatine Duct Cyst RadiologyNDEB AFK

A periapical radiograph of a maxillary central incisor shows a well-defined, heart-shaped radiolucency in the midline above the apices. The teeth are vital. What is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: D — Nasopalatine duct cyst

A well-defined, round or heart-shaped (due to nasal septum superimposition) radiolucency in the anterior maxillary midline with vital adjacent teeth is the classic presentation of the nasopalatine duct cyst. It is the most common non-odontogenic cyst of the jaws. It must be differentiated from a large incisive foramen (normal variant, usually <6 mm). Treatment is surgical enucleation through a palatal approach.

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