An enigma of Gorlin–Goltz syndrome: Two cases reported in mother and daughter

Gorlin–Goltz syndrome (GGS) also known as the nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome or the nevus–Bifid rib syndrome is an inherited autosomal dominant syndrome. It is caused by genetic alteration produced by a mutation in the “patched” tumor suppressor gene. This rare syndrome is characterized by basal cell carcinoma of skin, multiple odontogenic keratocyst and bifid ribs along with other features such as hypertelorism, sex organ abnormalities, palmar and/or plantar pits and calcification of falx cerebri. Early detection and treatment are essential for patients suffering from this syndrome. Only a few cases of this syndrome with familial background have been reported from India. In this study, we present a rare case of GGS in a mother and her daughter. The purpose of this study is to discuss the role of a dentist in early detection and the need for a multidisciplinary approach for the treatment of this syndrome.