Recurrent calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor of the maxilla: report of a case with cytologic diagnosis

BACKGROUND: Calcifying epithelial odontogenic tuor (CEOT) occurs rarely in the maxilla and lacks classical clinicoradiologic features. The cytologic features in conjunction with the radiologic picture can be helpful in making a preoperative diagnosis and guiding management. CASE: A young man with a progressively increasing left cheek swelling and proptosis of the left eye was referred for fine needle aspiration cytology. The smears were paucicellular and showed clusters of mildly pleomorphic squamoid cells; abundant, amyloidlike, pink material; and occasional concentric calcification. A provisional diagnosis of CEOT was given and confirmed on histopathology. CONCLUSION: The characteristic cytologic findings in association with radiologic features can help the cytopathologist in rendering a firm preoperative diagnosis of CEOT even at atypical sites such as the maxilla.