Calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor and adenomatoid odontogenic tumor: radiographic evaluation.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to describe the radiographic features of calcifying cystic odontogenic tumors (CCOTs) and adenomatoid odontogenic tumors (AOTs) and to compare the radiographic findings for these 2 lesions.

STUDY DESIGN: We retrospectively reviewed radiographs of CCOTs and AOTs. Location, border, relationship of the lesion with the impacted tooth, calcification patterns, tooth displacement, and root resorption were evaluated.

RESULTS: Nine CCOTs and 8 AOTs were reviewed. Most CCOTs and AOTs had smooth borders. Three CCOTs and 7 AOTs enclosed impacted teeth. Of these cases, the radiolucencies of 3 CCOTs and 1 AOT were attached to the impacted teeth at the cementoenamel junctions. Three AOTs enclosed more portions of the roots, and the other 3 AOTs enclosed the entire teeth. Calcification in CCOTs appeared as a thin radiopaque line (2 cases) and discrete radiopaque foci (1 case), whereas AOTs had numerous dispersed or clustered radiopaque foci (4 cases).

CONCLUSIONS: Radiolucency with numerous radiopaque foci (particularly when the radiolucency surrounds a portion of the root or entire tooth) is suggestive of an AOT rather than a CCOT.