Cysts of the Oral Cavity

Study Notes

Characteristics of Cysts

A cyst is defined as a pathologic cavity lined by epithelium, filled with fluid or semi-fluid material, and often surrounded by a fibrous capsule.

Inflammatory Cysts

Inflammatory cysts are associated with inflammation.

Odontogenic Keratocyst

Odontogenic keratocysts are distinguished from other odontogenic cysts by their characteristic parakeratinized epithelial lining and high recurrence rate.

Non-Odontogenic Cysts

Mucous retention cysts are non-odontogenic cysts.

Primary Bone Cysts (Pseudocysts)

Primary bone cysts (pseudocysts) are distinguished from other cysts by their lack of epithelial lining.

Mucous Retention Cysts

Mucous retention cysts are characterized by the accumulation of mucin in the connective tissue as a result of obstruction or rupture of the ductal system of the salivary glands.
Mucous retention cysts are most commonly seen in the older adult population.
They are commonly seen in the lower lip, buccal mucosa, and tongue.
The usual size of a mucous retention cyst is around 1-2 cm in diameter.
The recommended treatment for mucous retention cysts is surgical excision.
Mucous retention cysts are NOT associated with a fibrous capsule.
The ductal epithelium lining the mucous retention cysts is characterized by a single layer of cuboidal or flat epithelial cells.
The primary source of mucin for mucous retention cysts is the minor salivary glands.
Mucous retention cysts are distinguished from extravasation mucoceles by their retention of mucin, whereas extravasation mucoceles are characterized by the spillage of mucin into the surrounding tissue.

Description

Learn about the general considerations of cysts in the oral cavity, including their characteristics, symptoms, and impact on surrounding tissues. This quiz provides an overview of epithelial-lined pathologic cavities that may contain liquid or semi-liquid material and their radiographic appearances.