Osteoid osteoma of the zygoma: report of an unusual case.

Background: Osteoid osteoma is a benign tumor of bone characterized by pain, usually occurring at night, that shows a dramatic response to aspirin. The literature contains reports of only a few cases in the head and neck region.

Case Description: The authors present an unusual case of an osteoid osteoma of the craniofacial bones. The patient sought an evaluation of pain in the area of the right zygoma. One of the authors, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, noted a small area of swelling. The patient underwent radiographic, computed tomographic and nuclear medicine studies. On the basis of the images and the biopsy report, the authors made a diagnosis of osteoid osteoma. In this article, they describe the treatment of and new modalities of therapy for this condition.

Clinical Implications: The general dentist should be aware of any lesion that is not common. If the generalist has any doubt about the nature or management of an unusual oral lesion, referral to appropriate specialists is mandatory.