Nevoid basal cell carcinoma (Gorlin-Goltz) syndrome: an incidental finding

Abstract

Gorlin-Goltz syndrome, also known as basal cell nevus syndrome, is a rare condition characterised by skeletal abnormalities, odontogenic keratocysts and basal cell nevi. Diagnosis of this condition is based on major and minor clinical and radiological criteria. Oral medicine and radiology specialists are crucial in diagnosing this condition due to the oral and maxillofacial symptoms. However, conventional radiographs may not provide enough information for an accurate diagnosis, including the two-dimensional imaging modalities. Therefore, the importance of advanced digital imaging for diagnosis is highlighted in this case report of a male patient in his late 20s. The patient had missing teeth and asymptomatic multiple swelling in the orofacial region for 2 months. Routine clinical examination, radiographic investigations and histopathological evaluation led to incidental finding of multiple cystic lesions in the maxillary and mandibular region which on further evaluation led to the final diagnosis of Gorlin-Goltz syndrome.