Histologic or Microscopic Features of Dentigerous Cyst

Dentigerous cyst is a developmental Odontogenic cyst that is formed by expansion of dental follicle and therefore always attached to the neck of an impacted or Unerupted tooth. Initially this lesion is asymptomatic, other than a clinically missing tooth. In later stages the cyst causes Bony Expansion and displacement of teeth and pain if infected.  This is the most common Developmental Ododntogenic Cyst. Dentigerous Cysts are either Solitary, Bilateral or Multiple commonly associated with Syndromes like Cleidocranial Dysplasia. Dentigerous Cysts have been seen to turn Malignant and the Development of Ameloblastoma from walls of Dentigerous Cyst is also seen.

For Detailed Description of Dentigerous Cyst: Dentigerous Cyst

Histopathology of Dentigerous Cyst or Follicular Cyst:

These are the characteristic features of Dentigerous Cyst which will help us in identifying or differentiating the Cyst from other type of Cysts, these points are also important in various Examinations.

1. The Lining Epithelium is derived from Reduced enamel epithelium and hence appears as uniformly thin non-keratinized epithelium.
2. The Epithelium comprises of 2-3 layers of flattened cells.
3. Rete Pegs are Absent in Dentigerous Cyst similar to OKC.
4. Connective Tissue capsule is derived from Dental Follicle.
5. The Connective Tissue capsule consists of young Fibroblasts which are widely separated by Ground Substance rich in Mucopolysaccharide.
6. RUSHTON’S BODIES – peculiar, linear, often curved, hyaline bodies with variable staining of uncertain origin and unknown significance, but probably of hematogenous origin, found within the lining epithelium – especially in areas of inflammation.
7. Connective Tissue Capsule may show Odontogenic Epithelial Remnants.
8. Cystic Lumen contains Cystic Fluid which is thin, watery or may be Blood tinged.

Characteristic of Identification Points of Dentigerous Cyst:

• Non Keratinized Epithelium of 2-3 cell layers thick
• Lining Epithelium similar to Reduced Enamel Epithelium
• Cyst Attached to Neck of the Tooth
• Odontogenic Epithelial Islands in Capsule
• Presence of Rushton Bodies