Radicular Cyst –An Update with emphasis on Pathogenesis

ntroduction A radicular cyst is generally defined as a cyst arising from epithelial residual (cell rests of Malassez) in the periodontal ligament as consequence of inflammation, usually following the death of dental pulp. Radicular cysts are the most common odontogenic cystic lesions of inflammatory origin affecting the jaws. They are most commonly found at the apices of the involved teeth, However they may also be found on the lateral aspect of the roots in relation to lateral accessory root canals. Most of the radicular cyst are symptomless and are discovered when periapical radiograph are taken of teeth with non-vital pulps. Patient often complains of slowly enlarging swellings. Radiographically most radicular cyst appears as round or pear shaped unilocular radiolucent lesion in the periapical region. The cyst may displace adjacent teeth or cause mild root resorption. The Quite often a radicular cyst remains behind in the jaws after removal of the offending tooth and this is referred to as a residual cyst. They are most commonly associated with permanent teeth and are rare in the primary teeth. Epidemiology: Radicular cysts are the most common of all jaw cysts and comprise about 52% to 68% of all the cysts affecting the human jaws. Actual prevalence of cysts is only about 15% of all apical periodontitis lesions. Their prevalence is highest among patients in their third decade of life, and higher among men than women.