Clinical Analysis on the Cystic Lesions in the Maxilla

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Jaw cysts are frequently diagnosed by dentists, however they are also presented with symptoms specific to otolaryngology which are different from common symptoms found in dentistry. Thus, those diagnosed by otolaryngologists are likely to show different clinical manifestations. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical characteristics of jaw cysts found in otolaryngology. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was carried out. Frequency, sex, age, symptoms, site of occurrence, histopathology, treatment and results of 30 jaw cysts, were analyzed. These were diagnosed and surgically treated between May, 1990 and August, 1998 at our otolaryngology department. RESULTS: Among 30 jaw cysts, there were 15 cases (50%) of nasolabial cysts, 8 cases (27%) of dentigerous cysts, 5 cases (17%) of nasopalatine cysts and 2 cases (6%) of radicular cysts. Nasolabial cysts (NLC) were the most common among middle-aged females, and they showed a common complaint of cheek swelling. They were all removed surgically by gingivobuccal incision. One case of cellulitis was reported postoperatively and it was treated with antibiotics. Dentigerous cysts (DC) were mostly found among young males. The most common chief complaint was cheek swelling. 4 cases (50%) of DC were associated with chronic paranasal sinusitis. In 5 cases (63%) the cysts were surgically removed after opening the maxillary sinus by gingivobuccal incision. 3 cases (37%) were removed by the Caldwell-Luc approach. Nasopalatine cysts (NPC) were prevalent during the third and fourth decade. Common symptoms were palatal swelling, pain and tenderness. All were treated with surgery by the transpalatal approach. One case of postoperative palatal fistula was reported and was successfully repaired. There were 2 cases of radicular cyst (RC). 1 case was removed by sublabial incision, and the other case was removed by the Caldwell-Luc approach. CONCLUSION: The most common jaw cysts in the maxilla were nasolabial cyst. Most jaw cysts were treated by surgery without recurrence.