Odontogenic cysts

A variety of cysts frequently present in the jaws. Cysts that derive their epithelium from tissues involved in tooth formation are classed ‘odontogenic’ and can be inflammatory or developmental in origin. These cysts show variable features and some lie on a cyst-tumour interface, making classification and diagnosis difficult. In this review we discuss the pertinent histological features, as well as highlighting the importance of radiographic analysis to achieve a definitive diagnosis. The current controversies regarding cyst classification are also covered and we state our position on this highly debated topic.