Traumatic Bone Cyst of the Condylar Region: Report of 2 Cases

Abstract

The traumatic bone cyst (TBC) has been a recognized entity since 1929, when it was described by Lucas, and subsequently further defined by Rushton. Although “traumatic bone cyst” may misrepresent the nature of the lesion, authors have noted the popularity of this label. This intraosseous entity is also known by a variety of synonyms including solitary bone cyst, simple bone cyst, hemorrhagic bone cyst, unicameral cyst, idiopathic bone cavity, and progressive bone cyst or cavity. Because the classical scalloped radiographic appearance is not diagnostic, nor does the lesion possess clinical specificity, it is important to differentiate it from other forms of pathology occurring in the maxillofacial region, including aneurysmal bone cyst, eosinophilic granuloma, central giant cell granuloma, ameloblastoma, brown tumor of hyperparathyroidism, and osteosarcoma. Most commonly, the TBC involves the body or symphysis of the mandible. It is rarely found in the condyle, with approximately 10 cases currently available. This report describes 2 new cases of TBC in the region of the mandibular condyle.