Cysts and pseudocysts of the maxillary antrum revisited

There is considerable confusion in the literature regarding the terminology and distribution of cysts and pseudocysts of the maxillary antrum, which are therefore often lumped together as dome-shaped shadows on the floor of the maxillary sinus. We report a case of a mucocoele of the maxillary antrum that occurred in a 25-year-old male and review the clinical, radiographic and histological features of cysts and pseudocysts of the maxillary sinus including antral mucocoeles, postoperative maxillary cysts, pseudocysts and retention cysts; and highlight some of the pertinent distinguishing features. Awareness of the appropriate nomenclature and correlation of clinical, radiographic and histological features will generally result in the correct diagnosis and proper treatment.