Enlargement of a Stafne cyst as an indication for surgical treatment – A case report

Stafne cysts are often defined as static lesions located in the angle of the mandible. Consequently many authors have proposed that there is no need for surgical treatment of these bony defects on the lingual side of the mandible. This article describes the case of a 55-year-old patient, in whom a Stafne cyst showed a significant enlargement, reaching a size that necessitated surgical intervention because of the risk of pathological fracture. A literature search showed 5 additional similar cases, where progression in the size of a Stafne cyst could be radiographically documented. Consequently, the recommended management of these pseudocysts should be reconsidered.