Odontogenic Keratocyst – A tumor – an enigma

The term ‘odontogenic keratocyst’ was introduced by Philipsen (1956). The designation ‘keratocyst’ was initially used to describe any jaw cyst in which keratin was formed to a large extent. Recently the terms ‘keratocystoma’, ‘keratocystic odontogenic tumour’, and ‘keratinising cystic odontogenic tumour’ have been suggested. There has been a great deal of interest in the odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) since it became apparent that it may grow to a large size before it manifests clinically and that, unlike other jaw cysts, it has a particular tendency to recur following surgical treatment. In this review we would like to discuss on the evidence that has been accumulated over the years, that the OKC may be a benign cystic neoplasm. Arising from this, there has been much discussion recently on the change in terminology. Key words - Odontogenic Keratocyst, Aggressive, Tumor