Squamous cell carcinoma arising in the epithelial lining of a dentigerous cyst.

The dentigerous cyst is a common oral lesion arising as a developmental anomaly during amelogenesis. In rare instances, the epithelial lining of these cysts may give rise to squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Fewer than 50 cases of this rare entity have been reported in the world literature to date. We present an additional case of SCC arising in a dentigerous cyst with a rationale for our treatment approach. In addition, we offer a review of the literature and a review of the clinical, histologic, and radiographic findings associated with this finding. We discuss epidemiologic data and treatment options.