keratocysttKC

KeratocysttKC is not a widely recognized term in current dental or maxillofacial pathology. It may be a typographical error or a混ation of terms referring to keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) or odontogenic keratocyst (OKC). KCOT and OKC describe related but distinct concepts in the same disease spectrum: KCOT emphasizes a neoplastic, potentially aggressive lesion, while OKC emphasizes a cystic origin.

Keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) is a benign but locally aggressive lesion arising from odontogenic epithelium, often from dental lamina remnants. It is associated with mutations in the PTCH1 gene and Hedgehog signaling pathway, and its occurrence is increased in Gorlin-Goltz syndrome. Clinically, KCOTs most commonly affect the posterior mandible and can be asymptomatic or present as a painless swelling. They may be unilocular or multilocular and can cause tooth displacement or resorption.

Radiographically, KCOTs appear as well-defined radiolucent areas that may be unilocular or multilocular with smooth or scalloped borders. They can cause cortical expansion and thinning, and occasionally root resorption. Histologically, KCOTs show a thin, parakeratinized stratified squamous epithelium with a palisaded basal cell layer and a corrugated luminal surface.

Treatment ranges from conservative approaches—enucleation with adjunctive therapies such as chemical cautery (e.g., Carnoy’s solution), peripheral ostectomy, or marsupialization—to more aggressive surgical resection for large or recurrent lesions. Recurrence is a significant concern and long-term follow-up is recommended, often spanning several years. Management may involve multidisciplinary care, particularly when associated with Gorlin-Goltz syndrome.