juxtaoral organ of Chievitz

juxtaoral organ of Chievitz

A normal metabolically active structure located in the buccotemporal fascia on the medial face of the ascending ramus, which is thought to be a mechanosensor in the oral cavity. Ignorance of the JOOC has led to extensive and unnecessary investigations and needless surgical excision. In children, the JOOC may appear as a small mass in the cheeks.
Histology
Epithelial islands in highly organised connective tissue stroma, rich in nerves and sensory receptors, innervated by the buccal nerve. The intimate mixing of epithelial islands with nerves has been misinterpreted as perineural invasion by carcinoma. Hyperplasia of the parenchyma may occur, but carcinoma originating from this organ has not been reported.