COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC FEATURES OF CALCIFYING ODONTOGENIC CYSTS

Objectives: To describe the CT appearances of 4 cases of the calcifyin g odontogenic cyst (COC) with particular reference to the effect of va rying the window settings, Methods: Conventional radiographs and CT sc ans of 4 calcifying odontogenic cysts were analyzed with respect to th e presence of an impacted tooth, root resorption and calcification, In addition, increased attenuation by desquamated keratin was examined b y varying the window settings on CT. Results: All lesions were located in the maxilla and on conventional radiographs, had unilocular radiol ucency with a well-defined margin, Calcifications and inclusion of an impacted tooth were seen in all cases. Root resorption was observed in two cases, but was not prominent, On CT, calcification was detected a t the periphery of the lesion and/or around the impacted tooth in all cases. Varying the window setting revealed an increased attenuation ar ea due to desquamated keratin. Conclusions: Varying the window setting on CT is useful as a means of identifying both desquamated keratin an d peripheral calcification in COC.