Odontogenic ghost cell tumor (OGCT) is considered as a neoplastic counterpart of the calcifying odontogenic cyst (COC). β-catenin mutations have been described in COC suggesting a critical role in its histogenesis. In this study, we report a patient with OGCT contains a missense mutation on codon 3 (ACT -> TCT). Immunohistochemistry showed nuclear, cytoplasmic, and membranous accumulation of β-catenin in the tumor cells. TUNEL assay showed positive signals in nucleated cells adjacent to the ghost cells. Our data suggest that β-catenin plays an important role in the tumorigenesis of OGCT. OGCT may developed by improper differentiation process coordinated by WNT signaling pathway. Further studies are needed to determine a genotypic/phenotypic characteristics of ghost cell containing odontogenic lesions.

• 김수아(조선대학교 치과대학 구강병리학교실, BK 21 Project) | Soo A Kim
• 황덕호(조선대학교 치과대학 구강병리학교실, BK 21 Project) | Deog Ho Hwang
• 안상건(조선대학교 치과대학 구강병리학교실, BK 21 Project) | Sang Gun Ahn
• 윤정훈(조선대학교 치과대학 구강병리학교실, BK 21 Project) | Jung Hoon Yoon