Radicular Cyst
Pronunciation: rad-IK-yoo-lar
An inflammatory cyst of odontogenic origin arising at the apex of a non-vital tooth, typically as a sequela of pulp necrosis and periapical infection.
Full Definition
Radicular cysts, also called periapical cysts or dental root cysts, are the most common odontogenic cysts in the jaw. They develop from the epithelial rests of Malassez in the periodontal ligament in response to chronic periapical inflammation secondary to pulp necrosis. Radiographically they present as well-defined periapical radiolucencies, which may be indistinguishable from periapical granulomas without histopathological examination. Their distinction from granulomas is clinically and editorially significant when reviewing pathology reports and surgical notes. Editors must render the term with the correct spelling 'radicular' and not substitute the colloquial 'root cyst' in formal clinical documents.
Usage
Usage note: Do not substitute 'periapical granuloma' — these are distinct diagnoses requiring histological confirmation.
In Context
- "Histopathological analysis of the enucleated lesion confirmed a radicular cyst with cholesterol clefts." — Oral pathology report
- "The radiograph showed a 12 mm periapical radiolucency at tooth #8, provisionally diagnosed as a radicular cyst pending biopsy." — Endodontic referral letter