Gorlin-Goltz Syndrome: A Case Series

Abstract

Gorlin-Goltz syndrome (GGS) among Indians is rarely reported. Since 1960, only 38 cases having 48 patients of Gorlin-Goltz syndrome have been identified in the Indian population. It is crucial to diagnose this illness early because it can be connected to a malignant lesion like fibrosarcoma, leiomyosarcoma or rhabdomyosarcoma. The four patients in this case series were identified and treated in our department between 2019 and 2023. The average patient age was around 20 years old. Jaw swelling and tooth movement were the two most typical presenting concerns. Odontogenic keratocysts (100%), palmer pits (100%), plantar pits (50%), calcification of falx cerebri (50%), and rib abnormalities (50%), were the most prevalent characteristics. None of the patients had basal cell cancer, cleft lip, or medulloblastoma. Multiple odontogenic keratocysts were present in three cases, whereas a single odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) was seen in one patient. Patients were managed with either marsupialization or enucleation, depending on the size of the cyst. Two cases with a large cyst size were marsupialized by using a modified obturator. Two cases with small cysts were managed with enucleation of the cyst followed by chemical cauterization. Recurrence was seen in two cases. In one patient, we noticed the formation of a new cyst. A GGS diagnosis can be made by having a systemic evaluation of the patient. A thorough examination of the patient should be performed in every histopathology-diagnosed case of OKC. This will help to miss the syndromic cases. The treatment part should be conservative, like marsupialization with an obturator in a large cyst. The obturator helps maintain patient hygiene and prevents regular visits for changing dressings. Small-sized cysts can be managed with enucleation and chemical cauterization. Radical resection should be avoided.