Nasopalatine duct cyst: report of 52 cases in a retrospective epidemiological study

Introduction. Nasopalatine duct cysts (NPDCs) are the most common developmental epithelial non-odontogenic cysts of the upper maxilla. Their etiological origin is still uncertain; NPDCs are often asymptomatic and are usually found randomly through local radio-diagnostic investigations carried out for other reasons. Main body. The aim of this investigation is to analyze and discuss the etiology, differential diagnosis, clinic-pathological characteristics of these lesions as well as to report the relative frequency and distribution of nasopalatine duct cysts in general population (NPDCs) with a literature’s review on the topic. The retrospective study was carried out using 52 clinical cases, with histopatological confirmation for NPDC, radiographs and oral photographs. Data included age and gender of the patient, radiographic findings, etiological factors, treatment, and prognosis of NPDC. Few surgical consideration are discussed. The study results report a NPDCs’ incidence of 2.39% and a male predilection with a 2:1.25 ratio. No statistically significant correlation was observed between the size of the lesion and patient’s gender. Lesions were usually asymptomatic (73%). All cysts were located in the anterior maxillary midline region. Panoramic X-rays and computed tomography was used to identify the lesion. Surgical treatment was performed under local anesthesia including the dissection and the removal of the cyst, usually adopting a palatine approach with an enveloping flap from 1.4 to 2.4. Relapse occured in 15.4% of the cases. Conclusions. The etiology of NPDC is unclear and a male predilection was observed. The histological analysis of cystic lesions was fundamental for the final diagnosis. Simple surgical resection was recommended, followed by clinical and radiological control to ensure the correct and complete resolution of the case.