Nasopalatine duct cyst (NPDc): one case report.

Objectives: NPDc arises from embryological tissue. It is classified among the epithelial non-odontogenic cysts according to the 1992 WHO histological typing of odontogenic tumors. The purpose of our report was to provide details about the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of NPDc.

Case report: A 25 year-old male was referred by his practitioner regarding to an intermittent palatal swelling for 6 months. Diagnosis of NPDc was suggested on the basis of computed tomography (CT-scan). Excision was performed under general anaesthesia. There was no post-operative complication. Histological features confirmed an inflamed NPDc. Follow up was 22 months, without relapse.

Conclusion: NPDc occurs in approximately 1% of the population and forms approximately 12% of all jaw cyst tumors. NPDc may occur at any age, but main cases are seen between 40 and 60 years old. It has a slight male predilection. Black and white people are equally involved. NPDc is normally asymptomatic, unless it is infected. The most common symptom is swelling, usually in the anterior part of palate's midline. Diagnosis is based on radiographic and histological results. Treatment of choice is enucleation.