Bilateral dentigerous cysts (heterotopic polyodontia) in a yearling Standardbred colt

Abstract

Summary This article describes the occurrence of bilateral dentigerous cysts in a 1‐year‐old entire male Standardbred horse. Computer tomography (CT) with a positive contrast CT fistulogram was used to accurately define the anatomy of the cysts preoperatively. Conventional surgical techniques were used to remove the cysts under general anaesthesia. The CT studies were able to precisely define the margins of the cysts and facilitated uncomplicated surgical excision. Follow‐up examination of the animal revealed excellent cosmesis at the surgical site. Histology was used to confirm the diagnosis of bilateral dentigerous cysts. Preoperative CT studies are invaluable to precisely define the anatomical locations of the dental anomalies associated with dentigerous cysts and thereby allow confident and uncomplicated excision. Dentigerous cysts may occur bilaterally in horses.

Acquisition and interpretation of radiographs of the equine skull

“…; Smith et al . ) ( Fig ). Radiographic appearance of dentigerous cysts varies depending on the age of the horse at time of diagnosis, and can range from being markedly radiopaque to radiolucent.…”

“…; Smith et al . ). It is important to note that dentigerous cysts can often consist of more than one dental structure, bilateral at times (Easley et al .…”

“…; Smith et al . ), and even develop within the cranium intimately involved with the brain ( Fig ). While the diagnosis of a dentigerous cyst may be easily performed via radiography alone, surgical planning and prognosis for removal is often incomplete without advanced 3‐dimensional imaging such as CT or MRI.…”

“…Dentigerous cysts begin as round, radiolucent structures with a striated, vertical radiodense pattern (aka dental buds) and eventually become dental structures resembling fully developed teeth. They typically have an associated draining tract Pease 2007;Easley et al 2010;Smith et al 2012). It is important to note that dentigerous cysts can often consist of more than one dental structure, bilateral at times (Easley et al 2010;Smith et al 2012), and even develop within the cranium intimately involved with the brain (Fig 8).…”

“…They typically have an associated draining tract Pease 2007;Easley et al 2010;Smith et al 2012). It is important to note that dentigerous cysts can often consist of more than one dental structure, bilateral at times (Easley et al 2010;Smith et al 2012), and even develop within the cranium intimately involved with the brain (Fig 8). While the diagnosis of a dentigerous cyst may be easily performed via radiography alone, surgical planning and prognosis for removal is often incomplete without advanced 3-dimensional imaging such as CT or MRI.…”