Multiple Mott Cells in Periapical Lesion of the Oral Cavity

An entity of bizarre plasma cells has been observed, containing spherical inclusions of immunoglobulins within the cytoplasm. These cells are termed as Mott cells and are believed to occur commonly in cases of chronic inflammation. Until now, they were reported to occur in systemic diseases, various hematolymphoid malignancies and in some syndromes; but their occurrence in chronic periapical infections of the oral cavity, given the paucity of available literature, raises questions about their obscure nature. In the present case report, a 24-year male presented with a draining sinus and periapical lesion involving the maxillary right incisors. After clinical and radiographic examination, an excisional biopsy sample of the periapical lesion was obtained. Histopathological examination revealed multiple bizarre Mott cells in the connective tissue stroma. The significance, nature or fate of these Mott cells is still unknown. Frequently overlooked or a chance occurrence, the presence of these multiple Mott cells in chronic inflammatory lesions of the oral cavity could be of some significance and demand increased awareness and further research.