Histopathologic spectrum and clinical correlation of lesions of jaw - a series of 60 cases

Odontogenic tumors have the potential for the development of malformations of the teeth as well as the surrounding tissue. Sound knowledge of various types of jaw lesions and their characteristics will help the clinician with timely measures and management. Our main aim was to study the histopathological nature of various jaw lesions retrieved from biopsies and resected specimens. Consecutive 60 cases of jaw lesions were analyzed. Odontogenic cyst, odontogenic tumor, fibro-osseous lesions, and giant cell lesions were included in this study. Lesions of the oral cavity, soft tissue lesions, secondary and inflammatory lesions of the jaw were excluded. H&E stained slides were examined by light microscopy. A total of 60 jaw lesions were analyzed for histologic type. Odontogenic cysts (55%) were found to be most common followed by odontogenic tumors (25%), fibro-osseous lesions (10%), giant cell lesions (05%), and non-odontogenic cysts (05%). The most commonly affected age groups were between 20-40 years. The mandible was more commonly involved bone. To conclude, based only on histology, the distinction between odontogenic cysts is difficult and almost impossible when they are secondarily infected. For definitive diagnosis clinical-radiological correlation is needed.