Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Odontogenic Keratocyst
A benign but aggressive cystic lesion of the jaws with high recurrence potential, now classified as keratocystic odontogenic tumor.
Full Definition
An odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is a developmental cyst arising from dental lamina remnants, characterized by its aggressive behavior and high recurrence rate if inadequately treated. Previously classified as a cyst, it is now recognized as a benign tumor due to its growth pattern and genetic characteristics. The lesion typically presents as a unilocular or multilocular radiolucency and requires complete enucleation with peripheral ostectomy to minimize recurrence risk.
Usage
Usage note: The newer term 'keratocystic odontogenic tumor' is preferred in current literature.
In Context
- "Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of odontogenic keratocyst with characteristic parakeratinized epithelium." — Pathology report
- "The patient requires long-term follow-up due to the high recurrence potential of odontogenic keratocyst." — Post-operative instructions
Also known as
OKC
keratocystic odontogenic tumor
KCOT
Don't confuse with
dentigerous cyst
radicular cyst
ameloblastoma