Histopathological and histochemical analysis of clear cells in cystic odontogenic lesions

Abstract

Introduction: metaplastic and degenerative changes are usually observed in the epithelial lining of odontogenic cysts. These processes are considered rare in Odontogenic tumors. Objective: to demonstrate the presence of clear cells in the epithelial lining of a series of odontogenic cystic lesions. Methods: a descriptive study was done, in a sample of 22 histological slides of the total odontogenic cystic lesions originating from the Oral Pathology Laboratory at the Federal University of Paraiba. The slides were examined by two calibrated examiners and the paraffin blocks, corresponding to the lesions, where clear cells were observed, were re-processed and the slides were stained by the Periodic Acid-Schiff technique after digestion by diastase and evaluated for the presence of mucous cells. Results: mucin-containing cells were present in 12(54,5 %) of the stained lesions by Periodic Acid-Schiff technique with diastase. Mucous cells were observed in 5(41.66 %) of 12 root cysts cases, 1(50 %) of 2 keratocystic odontogenic tumors, in 4(100 %) cases of dentigerous cysts and in 2(100 %) cases of unicystic ameloblastomas. Clear cells were often observed in inflammation areas. Conclusion: In the study sample mucous cells could be evidenced occasionally in the epithelium of cystic odontogenic lesions. Keywords: mucous cells; Metaplasia; Periodic Acid-Schiff Reaction.

Keywords

• células mucosas
• metaplasia
• reacción del ácido peródico de schiff.