Review article: Aneurysmal bone cysts of the jaws

Abstract

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a osteolytic bone lesion that rarely involves the jaws. To date, a total of 92 cases of JABCs have been described in detail in English literature. They prevalently occur in the first 2 decades (72.8%) with slight female predilection. It affects the mandible more often (68.5%) with a predominant location in the mandibular ramus (31.3%) and its posterior regions (20.4%). A painless (54.7%) or painful (43.2%) bone swelling is the most frequent clinical sign. Radiologically 93.8% of the lesions present as a radiolucency; in 69.4% multilocular in appearance. 15.2% of JABCs were secondary in nature, including 8 cases associated with fibrous dysplasia. The recurrence rate (13.3%) did not differ significantly when comparing the surgical technique (curettage, 15.2%; resection, 11.8%). JABCs are known for their different clinical and radiographic features, therefore often posing a diagnostic dilemma. Some JABC's may be secondary in nature. Careful curettage is considered to be suitable as treatment for JABCs.