The ghost in the jaw: A case report on three cases of calcifying odontogenic cyst

ABSTRACT

A calcifying odontogenic cyst (COC) is a rare developmental odontogenic cyst characterized by diverse clinical, radiographic, and histological features. This case series aims to highlight the variability in presentations and emphasize the importance of histopathological confirmation. Three cases of COC were evaluated using clinical examination, panoramic radiography, and histological analysis. All patients underwent surgical management and follow-up. Patients presented with painless swelling in different regions of the maxilla and mandible, consistent with the slow-growing nature of COC. Radiographically, the cyst appeared as well-defined, unilocular radiolucencies with varying degrees of calcifications. Histopathological examination revealed characteristic ghost cells and calcifications in all cases. Surgical enucleation resulted in satisfactory outcomes without recurrence during follow-up. This case series contributes to the understanding of COC and emphasizes the necessity of thorough clinical, radiographical, and histological evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.