Абстрактный

Large Unilocular Radiolucent Lesions of the Jaws: A Pathologist’s Enigma and a Surgeon’s Conundrum

Priya Jeyaraj

Unilocular radiolucent lesions of the jaws, in particular, those which cause extensive destruction and hollowing out of the bone, are a major cause for concern, both, with regards to their correct diagnosis, as well as a timely institution of the most appropriate treatment procedure. A relatively aggressive lesion with considerable invasive and recurrence potential, such as an Odontogenic tumor may radiologically and sometimes even histopathologically masquerade as a seemingly innocuous pathology such as an Odontogenic cyst. It is imperative to precisely diagnose and completely eliminate the lesion, while at the same time, ensure least possible morbidity for the patient, such as pathological fractures, persisting neurological deficits, esthetic deformity, functional debility, and of course, recurrence or persistence of the lesion. Histopathological examination supplemented by Immunohistochemical analysis of biopsy specimens, using Tumor Markers such as Calretinin and Prognostic Indicators such as Ki-67 and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA), have proved invaluable in correctly distinguishing between Odontogenic cysts and tumors and indicating their likely prognosis, thereby aiding in their correct management.