Odontogenic Keratocyst

Definition: An odontogenic epithelium neoplasm with a thin keratinized lining.

Radiographic Features:

Location: Posterior mandible and ramus (most common) but can occur anywhere in the maxilla or mandible.

Edge: Well-defined to well-localized.

Shape: Round to no identifiable shape.

Internal: Radiolucent (unilocular or multilocular).

Other: Tendency to grow along the jaw with minimal expansion.

Number: Single.  If multiple, an underlying syndrome should be considered (basal cell nevus syndrome/Gorlin-Goltz syndrome).

(Click image to enlarge)

Odontogenic keratocyst – right posterior mandible

Odontogenic keratocyst – anterior mandible


5 thoughts on “Odontogenic Keratocyst

  1. How to distinguish between ameloblastoma and keratocystic odontogenic tumor on radiology,as they are both cause expansion and root resorption of adjacent teeth?

    Thanks

    1. Ameloblastoma – tends to cause more resorption of teeth and expansion of bone first.

      Keratocystic odontogenic tumor – grows along jaws first.

      But since both have very similar radiographic appearances and locations that they occur you should always have both of them in a differential list if you are considering one of them.

      1. It depends on location, size and other surrounding anatomical structures. Typically enucleation is done but each case is slightly different.

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