Perplexity & uniqueness of the Calcifying Odontogenic Cyst (COC) type 1c: A case report

Calcifying odontogenic cysts (COCs) are rare developmental odontogenic cystic lesions, accounting for < 1% of all odontogenic cysts. First described by Gorlin in 1962, it usually affects the anterior jaw segments. Owing to its considerable diverse histopathologic presentations and biological behaviour, the true nature of this lesion has been long debated. The "dualistic" concept & classification proposed by Praetorius et al. categorises it into two entities: a cyst & a neoplasm. Its infamous association with other odontogenic tumors has been well established but less frequently reported. We document a case report of massive COC type 1c in the posterior mandible of a 58-year-old patient, evolving over a period of 5 months. Enucleation followed by histopathologic evaluation led to the diagnosis of COC Type 1c. Patient is asymptomatic & is under follow up. We emphasise that COCs may remain asymptomatic or may clinicoradiographically simulate other more common jaw pathologies, thus a meticulous knowledge of its enigmatic histological variants plays a crucial role in definitive diagnosis & better treatment outcome.