Clear-cell variant of calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor: clinical and radiographic characteristics.

Objectives: Clear cells have been reported in approximately 8% of cases of calcifying epithelial odontogenic tumor (CEOT). The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical and radiographic features of clear-cell CEOT (CCEOT).

Study Design: Eighteen cases of CCEOT were identified by review of the literature from 1958 to 2001, and a new one was added (total 19; 12 central, 7 peripheral).

Results: Fourteen tumors (74%) were located in the mandible, with the central lesions favoring the posterior area and the peripheral lesions the anterior-bicuspid area. Radiographic features were as follows: 50% radiolucent, 50% mixed radiolucent-radiopaque; 92% unilocular; 64% well-defined noncorticated borders, 27% well-defined corticated borders, 9% irregular borders. Cortical perforation was common (67%) compared with CEOT without a clear-cell component (6.7%). Recurrence was reported in 17% of the central lesions and none of the peripheral ones.

Conclusions: CCEOT is a distinct variant of CEOT; its high tendency for cortical perforation may indicate a more aggressive behavior.