Aneurysmal Bone Cyst of Maxilla Mimicking Dentigerous Cyst: A Rare Case Report

Abstract

Aneurysmal bone cysts are not real cysts or aneurysms; they are rare non-neoplastic bone lesions occuring mainly in the long bone metaphyses, they are rarely seen in the facial bones. Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a rare benign intraosseous lesion characterized by blood-filled spaces of various sizes. The incidence of aneurysmal bone cyst in the craniofacial skeleton is rare which may remain undiagnosed for a long period prior to becoming symptomatic which may cause associated issues secondary to compression by extending to the surrounding vital anatomical areas. In the jawbones, the mandible is involved more commonly than the maxilla. We present a rare case of aneurysmal bone cyst in maxilla in 16-year-old male patient reporting to our department with complaint of painless swelling in upper right anterior region of jaw. Based upon clinical examination and radiographic examination this case was diagnosed as dentigerous cyst. Enucleation was done but histopathological features were is accordance with aneurysmal bone cyst. An aggressive course can lead to bony destruction with intracranial extension and are more likely to pose a diagnostic challenge as they are more likely to be confused clinically with other expansile radiolucent bone lesions such as dentigerous cyst, ameloblastoma, osteoblastoma, and giant cell tumor among many others.  hence we conclude that practitioners must have knowledge of aneurysmal bone cyst for correct diagnosis, investigation and effective management.