Calcifying Odontogenic Cyst Associated with Complex Odontoma: Report of a Rare Case

Abstract

Calcifying odontogenic cyst, also known as Gorlin cyst is a rare benign cystic lesion primarily found in the jawbones, accounting less than 1% of odontogenic cysts. It can be associated with odontogenic tumors such as odontomas. We report a rare case of COC associated with complex odontoma in a young patient and discuss its clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment options. An 18-year-old female patient presented with a painless radiopaque lesion of the right mandibular bone at Oral Medicine and Oral Surgery department. Radiographs revealed irregular tooth-like structures in the canine-premolar area. The lesion was surgically removed, and histopathology confirmed COC with a complex odontoma. As of the World Health Organization’s 2022 definition, COC is a developmental odontogenic cyst characterized by calcified ghost cells. It typically affects individuals during their second and third decades of life, with no gender preference, almost equally in the maxilla and the mandible. The main treatment is total enucleation, with a generally favorable prognosis. Histopathology is essential for diagnosis due to its mimicry of other jaw conditions. Long-term follow-up is needed to prevent recurrences.