Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma arising from calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor: a case report

Korean J Pathol. 2012 Oct;46(5):478-82. doi: 10.4132/KoreanJPathol.2012.46.5.478. Epub 2012 Oct 25.

Abstract

Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma (GCOC) is an exceptionally rare and malignant odontogenic tumor with aggressive growth characteristics. We describe a case of GCOC which was considerably derived from a previously resected calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor (CCOT). Cellular atypia, mitotic activity, Ki-67 labeling index and matrix metalloprotease-9 positive expression rate were all increased in the currently resected specimen compared to the initial one. This is a rare case of malignant transformation of CCOT to GCOC with respect to its histopathological and immunohistochemical findings.

Keywords: Calcifying cystic odontogenic tumor; Ghost cell odontogenic carcinoma.