ORTHOKERATINIZED ODONTOGENIC KERATOCYST: A CASE OF UNCOMMON HISTOLOGY IN A COMMON LOCATION

Dr. Kanchan M. Birajdar*, Dr. Rohan Chaudhari, Dr. Birangane R. S., Dr. Pratik Parkarwar and Dr. Rahul Bopte

ABSTRACT

Background: Orthokeratinized odontogenic cyst (OOC) is a rare developmental cyst of odontogenic origin, considered a distinct entity from the more common parakeratinized odontogenic keratocyst. It presents predominantly in young adult males and typically affects the posterior mandible. Case Presentation: A 19-year-old male presented with a swelling in the lower left posterior region of the jaw present for one year. Clinical examination revealed a solitary, non-tender swelling in the mandibular left buccal vestibule. Radiographs showed a unilocular radiolucency with haziness, root resorption of 36, and distal displacement of 37. Surgical excision with extraction of 36 and 37 was performed. Histopathological analysis revealed orthokeratinized epithelium with a granular cell layer and daughter cysts, confirming the diagnosis of orthokeratinized odontogenic keratocyst. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of correlating clinical, radiographic, and histopathological findings in diagnosing OOC. Due to its lower recurrence rate and less aggressive nature compared to parakeratinized variants, accurate identification is essential for appropriate management and long-term follow-up.

Keywords: Posterior mandible, Unilocular radiolucency, haziness, Orthokeratinized epithelium.