Gorlin cyst

Gorlin Cyst
Synonyms	Calcifying odontogenic cyst
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Swelling, pain, tooth displacement
Complications	Potential for neoplastic transformation
Onset
Duration
Types
Causes
Risks
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, radiographic imaging, histopathological analysis
Differential diagnosis	Dentigerous cyst, Ameloblastoma, Odontogenic keratocyst
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Surgical enucleation, curettage
Medication
Prognosis	Generally good with appropriate treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Overview

The Gorlin cyst, also known as the calcifying odontogenic cyst, is a rare odontogenic cyst that can occur in the jaws. It was first described by Robert J. Gorlin in 1962. This cyst is characterized by the presence of ghost cells and calcifications within the cystic lining.

Pathophysiology

The Gorlin cyst arises from the odontogenic epithelium, which is the tissue involved in the formation of teeth. The cyst is lined by an epithelium that resembles the ameloblastoma, but it is distinguished by the presence of ghost cells. These ghost cells are enlarged epithelial cells that have lost their nuclei and have a pale eosinophilic cytoplasm. The calcifications within the cyst are thought to result from the dystrophic calcification of these ghost cells.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with a Gorlin cyst may present with a painless swelling in the jaw, although some may experience pain or discomfort. The cyst can cause displacement of teeth and resorption of adjacent bone. It is most commonly found in the anterior region of the maxilla or mandible.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a Gorlin cyst involves a combination of clinical examination, radiographic imaging, and histopathological analysis. On radiographs, the cyst may appear as a unilocular or multilocular radiolucency with calcifications. Histologically, the presence of ghost cells and calcifications is diagnostic.

Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis for a Gorlin cyst includes other odontogenic lesions such as the dentigerous cyst, ameloblastoma, and odontogenic keratocyst. Each of these conditions has distinct histopathological features that help in differentiation.

Treatment

The primary treatment for a Gorlin cyst is surgical enucleation and curettage. Complete removal of the cyst is necessary to prevent recurrence. In some cases, more extensive surgery may be required if the cyst has caused significant bone destruction or if there is suspicion of neoplastic transformation.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with a Gorlin cyst is generally good, especially with complete surgical removal. However, there is a potential for recurrence if the cyst is not entirely excised. Malignant transformation is rare but has been reported in some cases.

Epidemiology

The Gorlin cyst is a rare condition, accounting for less than 1% of all odontogenic cysts. It can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in the second and third decades of life.

See Also

• Odontogenic cyst
• Ameloblastoma
• Odontogenic keratocyst

Classification
External resources