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Summary
Pigmented cells, likely ceroid-laden macrophages, were found in 38% of odontogenic cysts. Their presence was more common in inflammatory cysts, suggesting lipid oxidation contributes to pigment formation.
Area of Science:
- Oral Pathology
- Histology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Odontogenic cysts are common jaw lesions.
- The presence and nature of pigmented cells within these cysts are not fully understood.
- Understanding cyst composition aids in diagnosis and understanding pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and characteristics of pigmented cells in odontogenic cysts.
- To determine the nature of the pigment and its cellular origin.
- To explore the potential role of hemosiderin in pigment formation.
Main Methods:
- Histopathological examination of 105 odontogenic cysts.
- Analysis of pigmented cell morphology and distribution.
- Histochemical staining (sudanophilia, acid-fastness, silver reduction, PAS).
- Autofluorescence studies under ultraviolet light.
Main Results:
- Pigmented cells were identified in 38% of odontogenic cysts.
- Higher frequency of pigmented cells observed in inflammatory compared to developmental cysts.
- Pigment exhibited properties consistent with ceroid, associated with cholesterol crystals and hemosiderin.
- Histochemical and autofluorescence findings support macrophages containing ceroid.
Conclusions:
- The pigmented cells in odontogenic cysts are likely macrophages containing ceroid.
- Hemosiderin in the cyst wall may catalyze lipid oxidation, leading to ceroid formation.
- This finding provides insights into the biochemical processes within odontogenic cysts.