Lateral Periodontal Cyst in a 10-year-old Child

The lateral periodontal cyst (LPC) is a relatively rare odontogenic non-inflammatory cyst that arises in the alveolar process in close proximity to the roots of vital teeth. LPC is considered to be an odontogenic cyst of developmental origin that arise in close proximity to the periodontal space of teeth, with the exclusion of an inflammatory pathogenesis. LPC is most frequently observed in the premolar region of the mandible, followed by the maxillary incisor region. It is preferentially diagnosed in individuals aged between 40 and 70 years, although it may be occasionally diagnosed in patients outside this age range. LPC is usually asymptomatic and it is usually found by a combination of a clinical finding of a gingival swelling in the facial or lingual aspect of a tooth and of a radiographic finding. The involved teeth are usually vital. The radiographic feature of LPC is a well circumscribed ovoid-round radiolucent area, usually with a less than 1 cm diameter. The aim of the present article is to present an unusual case of LPC in the molar region in a 10-year-old child, and to discuss its diagnosis and management.