INTRODUCTION:The glandular odontogenic cyst is classified as a developmental epithelial odontogenic cyst and defined as "arising in the tooth-bearing areas of the jaws and characterized by an epithelial lining with cuboidal or columnar cells both at the surface and lining crypts or cyst-like spaces within the thickness of the epithelium". AIM: This review outlines the epidemiology, clinical and radiological presentation, histological characteristics, additional markers aiding in the correct diagnosis, treatment modalities, and recurrence rates of glandular odontogenic cysts.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:For the purpose of this review, literature reviews and case reports with included literature reviews from the Scopus, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databases were used. The bibliography of the selected articles was additionally analyzed.
RESULTS:The glandular odontogenic cyst is a relatively rare entity, clinically and radiographically nonspecific. It is often misdiagnosed because of its overlapping histopathological features with other odontogenic cysts such as lateral periodontal or botryoid cyst, dentigerous and radicular cysts with mucous metaplasia, and central mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Regarding the treatment, both conservative and radical methods may be applied. These cysts have a high propensity for recurrence and display an aggressive behavior.CONCLUSION: Clinically and radiographically glandular odontogenic cysts can resemble several other lesions of the jaws, which denotes the importance of a precise histopathological diagnosis. The choice of treatment should be based on the degree of aggressive behavior of the cyst. Meticulous examination, appropriate treatment planning, and sufficient follow-up periods are key to a successful outcome.