Abstract
The paper presents a case of lateral periodontal cyst (LPC), a rare developmental odontogenic cyst often identified incidentally on radiographs. A 29-year-old male presented with pain and a localized gingival swelling in the right mandibular canine–premolar region. Radiographic evaluation demonstrated a well-defined interradicular radiolucency measuring approximately 0.5 cm in diameter, bordered by a thin radiopaque margin. On vitality testing, tooth 44 responded positively to cold stimulus. The lesion was surgically enucleated, and subsequent histopathological analysis established its developmental odontogenic nature, consistent with a lateral periodontal cyst. Intraoperatively, no communication with the oral cavity was identified. The patient had uneventful healing and remained free of complications during the 1-month follow-up period. This case underscores the importance of considering LPC in the differential diagnosis of radiolucent lesions adjacent to vital teeth. Surgical removal followed by histopathological analysis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management, with relapses being uncommon in clinical practice. This case emphasizes that lateral periodontal cyst should always be considered in the differential diagnosis of radiolucent lesions adjacent to vital teeth, and that prompt surgical enucleation with histopathological confirmation ensures accurate diagnosis, effective management, and a favorable prognosis with minimal risk of recurrence.