Reconstruction of Pathology Induced Anterior Maxillary Defect: A Case Report

A cyst is defined as a pathologic cavity lined by epithelium. Nasopalatine duct cysts (NPDC) are of non-odontogenic origin arising from epithelial remnants from two embryonic nasopalatine ducts. These cysts may form anywhere along the ducts’ course, which runs from posterior palatal midline to the soft tissue palatine papilla also known as the incisive papilla. NPDC often develop between the 4th and 5th decades of life with men being affected more than women (2:1 ratio). They are typically asymptomatic but present with palatal swelling in the anterior maxillary region. Larger cysts may create a labial expansion in addition to a midpalate expansion which is usually compressible due to resorption of bone beneath the mucosa. Radiography often shows a well demarcated round or pear-shaped radiolucency superimposed on the incisive canal, tooth displacement or divergence of roots may be observed. This pathology is usually greater than 6mm in size which differentiates it from the incisive canal. Differential diagnoses often include a periapical granuloma or radicular cyst from nonvital central incisors, however a palatal radiolucency and expansion represents a NPDC until proven otherwise. Typical treatment includes enucleation and curettage with low recurrence rates.