Glandular odontogenic cyst: Series of five cases

INTRODUCTION: Glandular odontogenic cyst (GOC) is a clinically rare and histopathologically unusual type of developmental odontogenic cyst with unpredictable and potentially aggressive behaviour. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Archival data of cases histopathologically identified as GOC were analyzed from the Department of Oral Pathology over the past six years. The clinical, radiographic, histopathological features and treatment were evaluated. Special stains such as periodic acid Schiff, mucicarmine along with immunohistochemical staining for cytokeratin 19 were employed to confirm the histopathological diagnosis. RESULTS: The study indicated a strong female predilection with slightly more number of cases found in maxilla than mandible. Most cases showed a well defined multilocular radiolucency. The microscopic features which aid in its differentiation from its mimickers such as central mucoepidermoid carcinoma, lateral periodontal cyst, dentigerous cyst and botryoid odontogenic cyst which were observed included presence of variable thickness of the lining epithelium, epithelial plaques and whorls, hobnail cells, ciliated cells, clear cells and goblet cells. CONCLUSION: The present case series aims to throw light on the clinical, radiographic and microscopic features of GOC, which may aid in its definitive diagnosis in problematic cases.