Unveiling the Silent Cyst: A Case of Traumatic Bone Cyst in the Pediatric Mandible: A Case Report

Traumatic bone cyst (TBC) is a rare, non-epithelialized, intraosseous lesion of the jaws, most frequently observed in the mandibles of children and adolescents.[1,2] Despite its name, the association with trauma remains speculative, as many cases have no documented history of injury.[3,4] Clinically, TBCs are often asymptomatic and are commonly discovered incidentally during routine radiographic evaluations.[1,2] When symptoms are present, they may include mild swelling or discomfort, though these signs are typically minimal.[1,2] Radiographically, TBCs appear as well-defined, unilocular radiolucencies, often with scalloped margins extending between the roots of adjacent teeth without causing root resorption or displacement.[2,4,5] The overlying cortical bone is usually intact, and the involved teeth remain vital.[1,4] The absence of an epithelial lining classifies TBC as a pseudocyst, and diagnosis can only be confirmed through surgical exploration.[2,5] Intraoperatively, an empty cavity or one containing serosanguinous fluid is typically encountered, and curettage of the bony walls is often sufficient to stimulate healing.[1,3] The prognosis for TBC is excellent, with most lesions resolving completely after surgical intervention, and recurrence is rare.[2,5] Understanding the typical presentation of TBC is essential to avoid unnecessary aggressive treatment and to distinguish it from other radiolucent jaw lesions.[3,4] This article discusses the clinical, radiographic, and surgical aspects of traumatic bone cysts, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and conservative management, especially in pediatric cases.[1,2,3,4,5]