Odontogenic Keratocyst
Pronunciation: oh-don-toh-JEN-ik KAIR-uh-toh-sist
Also written as: OKC — Odontogenic Keratocyst
A benign but locally aggressive developmental cyst arising from remnants of the dental lamina, characterised by a thin, parakeratinised epithelial lining.
Full Definition
An odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is a developmental jaw cyst originating from remnants of the dental lamina or its offshoots. It is classified as a benign cystic neoplasm due to its aggressive growth behavior, high recurrence rate, and association with the PTCH1 gene mutation seen in Gorlin syndrome. Histologically, it is distinguished by a uniform, thin, parakeratinised stratified squamous epithelium and a flat epithelial-connective tissue interface. Editors must note that the term was formerly classified as 'keratocystic odontogenic tumour' (KCOT) by the 2005 WHO classification before being reverted to OKC in the 2017 revision. Correct terminology depends on the publication date and classification system being cited.
Usage
Usage note: Do not use 'keratocystic odontogenic tumour' (KCOT) in post-2017 publications unless directly referencing the superseded classification. Verify the edition of the WHO classification the author cites.
In Context
- "The biopsy confirmed an odontogenic keratocyst with the characteristic parakeratinised epithelial lining." — Histopathology report
- "Authors should clarify whether they are using the 2005 or 2017 WHO classification when referring to an odontogenic keratocyst." — Editorial style note