Keratocystic odontogenic tumor: a review

Abstract

The odontogenic keratocyst is a very well known odontogenic cyst. There are many types of cysts of the jaws, but what makes the odontogenic keratocyst unusual are its characteristic histopathological and clinical features, including potentially aggressive behaviour, high recurrence rate, and an association with the nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome. The characteristic histologic feature i.e. the presence of parakeratin, is unique amongst all the different inflammatory and developmental cysts that occur in the jaws. Many treatment modalities have been advocated for its treatment, but none in particular has been regarded as the best treatment option. The 2005 WHO classification now uses the term ‘keratocystic odontogenic tumor’. We present a review of treatment modalities of the KCOT.