Cystic and cystic-appearing lesions of the mandible: Review

Cystic lesions of the mandible arise from both odontogenic and nonodontogenic sources. Given the wide range of pathologic features but similar imaging findings, familiarity with embryologic characteristics and with secondary imaging findings is crucial. The prevalence and location in the mandible of a particular lesion often help narrow the differential diagnosis and direct the workup and treatment of a lesion. Imaging may not provide a specific diagnosis but should help narrow the differential diagnosis, thereby helping to guide patient treatment.