Odontogenic Keratocyst- The Controversies in Nomenclature and Treatment Modalities

Summary: Odontogenic keratocysts (OKC) now officially known as Keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) is a benign odontogenic intraosseous tumor which is potentially agrressive having distinguished clinical and histopathological features. Based on a literature review, more aggressive treatment — either resection or enucleation supplemented with Carnoy’s solution with or without peripheral ostectomy — results in a lower recurrence rate than enucleation alone or marsupialization. WHO’s reclassification of this lesion from cyst to tumour underscores its aggressive nature and should motivate clinicians to manage the disease in a correspondingly aggressive manner. The purpose of this paper is to review and discuss the redesignation of KCOT and the implications for treatment. [Maheta D NJIRM 2014; 5(5):70-76]