Melanin and odontogenic cysts

Abstract

Pigmentation in the head-and-neck lesions is an uncommon feature. The presence of it is fascinating, but its relevance is unknown. Various odontogenic and nonodontogenic lesions show the presence of melanin pigment. Although the presence of melanin is normal in the epithelium and connective tissue, the role of melanin pigmentation in odontogenic cysts is unclear. Apart from maintaining the skin balance, varying other functions of melanin is being researched. However, not much study has been done regarding it in odontogenic lesions. As the literature regarding such cases are scanty, here, we present a case of pigmented dentigerous cyst and an attempt to understand their relationship.