A case of a mandibular dentigerous cyst in a paediatric patient

Abstract

Cystic lesions of the jaw in the paediatric population have been infrequently documented in the literature. The majority of these lesions are considered to be developmental in nature, as opposed to the commonly noted inflammatory lesions in the adults. Although asymptomatic, these lesions are associated with a high level of anxiety for parents. Early diagnosis and management help to allay anxiety. We present a case of 6-year-old boy who had a rapidly growing lucent lesion of the mandible that needed urgent intervention. The lesion was excised, analysed histopathologically, and confirmed as a dentigerous cyst. The management of paediatric cystic lesions can be difficult and vary significantly from those of the adult population. This can be amplified because cross-sectional imaging is seldom used in children owing to the risk associated with radiation. We present our experience of dealing with rapidly progressing lesion and the lessons learned in the process. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The management of paediatric cystic lesions can be difficult and vary significantly from those of the adult population.