What is Currently Known about Odontogenic Keratocysts?

Purpose: To present updated information on odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) classification, etiology, genetic and mo-lecular alterations, epidemiology, clinical presentation, radiographic characteristics, histological and immune histo-chemical features, differential diagnosis, treatment, and controversies, as well as a literature review of case frequencies in different countries.Materials and Methods: Studies were selected using the key words 'odontogenic keratocyst,' 'odontogenic cysts,' 'odontogenic keratocyst and clinical study'. Full-text papers were reviewed on the basis of the inclusion and exclu-sion criteria. The literature search aimed to find articles that would show the frequency of OKC, dentigerous cyst, radicular cyst, and other cysts.Results: OKC presents local aggression and high recurrence; therefore, a better understanding of its clinical char- acteristics and the genetic and molecular factors involved in this peculiar and controversial lesion is required. It is always essential to discuss treatment alternatives. Although OKC is an entity with a high recurrence, aggressive treatment is not advisable in all cases because factors such as commitment to anatomical structures and possible complications should be considered. However, periodic radiographic controls are advised.Conclusion: To reduce the high number of present cases worldwide, it is important to improve knowledge on this pa-thology so that accurate diagnoses can be achieved and appropriate treatment can be provided. OKC presents local aggression and high recurrence; therefore, a better understanding is needed of the clinical characteristics and ge-netic and molecular factors involved in OKC. Furthermore, it is always essential to discuss treatment alternatives.