Metastases in odontogenic cysts – a survey of the literature and presentation of an own case

About 1% of all malignancies of the oral cavity are metastases to the jawbones and the surrounding soft tissues. Aim of this study is a review of the literature regarding metastasis to odontogenic cysts and to add one more case to this seldom diagnosis. Up to now, four cases have been described. The most common site of the primary tumor was the breast, followed by skin and pleura, with a strong relationship to patients' gender. The most common localization of the metastatic tumors was the mandible, in one case the metastasis was situated in the maxilla. In the mandible, only the molar area was involved. Patients complained of paresthesia, pain or swelling. This review emphasizes the importance of a thorough medical history and clinical examination for dentists and general physicians. Especially in patients with known malignant disease signs of pain and paraesthesia in the face, together with radiographic features of a radiolucency point to a possible pre-operative diagnosis of a metastatic tumor. Furthermore, a metastasis in an odontogenic cyst can be the first hint for a malignancy elsewhere in the body.