Long-term follow-up of a large multilocular odontogenic keratocyst. Analysis of recurrences and the applied treatments

Abstract

Recurrence is a well-known feature of odontogenic keratocyst (OKC). Compared with other odontogenic cysts, OKC is characterized by an infiltrating growth, aggressive biological behavior, and a greater tendency towards recurrence once removed, particularly when simple enucleation has been carried out. The recurrence rate is largely dependent upon the type of treatment applied; consequently, the planning of management must take into account the possible reasons why the cyst may recur. The present article describes the 25-year follow-up of a large multilocular OKC and discuss the possible causes of its multiple recurrences, as well as the treatments applied, with special attention on the last management approach adopted.