Glandular odontogenic cyst: insights into a rare and challenging lesion

Lauren Frenzel Schuch; Felipe Martins Silveira; Maria Natalia González Umpiérrez; Aurita Verónica Beovide-Cortegoso; Vanesa Pereira-Prado; Estefanía Sicco; Ronell Bologna-Molina

doi:10.5327/2525-5711.292

Authors

Lauren Frenzel Schuch Universidad de la República, School of Dentistry, Department of Diagnosis in Pathology and Oral Medicine – Montevideo, Uruguay. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0993-936X
Felipe Martins Silveira Universidad de la República, School of Dentistry, Department of Diagnosis in Pathology and Oral Medicine – Montevideo, Uruguay. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9834-5194
Maria Natalia González Umpiérrez Universidad de la República, School of Dentistry, Department of Diagnosis in Pathology and Oral Medicine – Montevideo, Uruguay. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9006-1680
Aurita Verónica Beovide-Cortegoso Universidad de la República, School of Dentistry, Department of Diagnosis in Pathology and Oral Medicine – Montevideo, Uruguay. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0888-507X
Vanesa Pereira-Prado Universidad de la República, School of Dentistry, Department of Diagnosis in Pathology and Oral Medicine – Montevideo, Uruguay. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7747-6718
Estefanía Sicco Universidad de la República, School of Dentistry, Department of Diagnosis in Pathology and Oral Medicine – Montevideo, Uruguay. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1137-6866
Ronell Bologna-Molina Universidad de la República, School of Dentistry, Department of Diagnosis in Pathology and Oral Medicine – Montevideo, Uruguay. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9755-4779

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5327/2525-5711.292

Keywords:

Odontogenic cyst, Odontogenic lesion, Glandular odontogenic cyst, Diagnostic challenge

Abstract

The glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC) is a rare developmental odontogenic cyst characterized by an epithelial lining resembling salivary or glandular tissue. Its aggressive behavior and potential for recurrence pose challenges in both diagnosis and management. This review consolidates current knowledge on etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation, histopathological features, and treatment approaches. GOC primarily affects male adults, often presenting asymptomatically, and is most commonly found in the mandible. Radiographically, it appears as a unilocular or multilocular radiolucency, frequently associated with unerupted teeth. Histologically, GOC is distinguished by a multilocular cystic structure lined with epithelial cells, which may include “hobnail,” clear, and mucous cells. While traditionally thought to lack MAML2 gene rearrangements, recent studies have identified MAML2 fusion transcripts in recurrent GOCs, suggesting a link to aggressive behavior. The differential diagnosis includes both benign and malignant conditions. Treatment options range from conservative management to radical resection, with recurrence being a notable concern. This review highlights the need for accurate diagnosis and long-term follow-up, as no histopathological features reliably predict recurrence. Further research is needed to optimize treatment strategies and deepen understanding of its biological behavior.

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