Maxillary Calcifying Epithelial Odontogenic Tumor Presenting at a Postextraction Site: A Case Report and Brief Review of Literature

Abstract

Calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT) was described as an entity by Danish pathologist Jens J. Pindborg in 1955. It is a rare benign odontogenic neoplasm forming 0.4–3.0% of all intraosseous tumors. Also known as Pindborg tumor, it is traditionally described as an uncommon, benign neoplasm of exclusively epithelial tissue of origin. Much of controversy exists in the nature of origin of this tumor; there is no consensus on the originating cells of CEOT. Some pathologists suggest that it is derived from stratum intermedium layer of enamel organ in the tooth development stage; others favor a different hypothesis in which this tumor may arise from the remnants of primitive dental lamina in the initial stages of odontogenesis. Most of the cases reported involve the posterior mandible than the maxilla in the ratio of 3:1. The mean age is 30–40 years with no gender predilection. The present case throws highlight on the unusual site of the lesion, i.e. presenting in the maxillary molar region as an ulcerated area in the area of extraction socket. The study also attempts to briefly emphasize the concepts of CEOT and also revives the review of literature.

Keywords

• Calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumour
• dental lamina
• odontogenesis