The incidence, multiple presentation and recurrence of aggressive cysts of the jaws.

The incidence, multiple presentation and recurrence rate of aggressive cysts of the jaws is discussed, based on a study of 677 cysts in 651 patients. Cysts that are considered aggressive include: cysts in which carcinoma develops, unicystic ameloblastoma, keratocysts and calcifying odontogenic cysts. Based on literature studies and on our own material, the incidence and multiplicity of these lesions is calculated. Recommendations for treatment include careful preoperative assessment and treatment of suspicious lesions with excision of the overlying mucosa and fixation of the defect with Carnoy's solution. The cyst in which carcinoma develops should be treated as a true malignancy i.e. by resection. Long term follow-up is necessary to eliminate the possibility of recurrence.