Definition: Benign, fluid-filled cysts developing in jaw bones, likely originating from tooth-forming tissues.
Radiographic Features:
- Location:
- 70% in posterior mandible
- Can occur in maxilla
- Edge:
- Smooth and well-defined (corticated)
- Often scalloped around tooth roots
- Shape:
- Unilocular
- Tends to expand jaw bone
- Internal:
- Radiolucent
- Other:
- Grows along jaw length with minimal outward expansion
- May cause root resorption of adjacent teeth
- Potential for bone perforation and soft tissue involvement
- Number:
- Usually single
- Multiple in 5-10% of cases (associated with basal cell nevus syndrome)
Key Diagnostic Signs:
- Well-defined, radiolucent lesion in posterior mandible
- Tendency for anteroposterior growth
- Scalloped borders
Clinical Significance:
- High recurrence rate after treatment
- Requires careful surgical management and long-term follow-up
- Multiple OKCs may indicate basal cell nevus syndrome
- Differential diagnosis from other jaw cysts is crucial
Note: Classification of OKCs as cysts or tumors is debated. Genetic factors, especially PTCH1 gene mutations, may play a role in their development. Radiographic appearance alone is not definitive; biopsy is often necessary for diagnosis.