OKC WHO 2017 Reclassification — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateOral PathologyOKC WHO 2017 ReclassificationNDEB AFK

In the WHO 2017 classification, the term 'odontogenic keratocyst' was reinstated to replace which previous designation?

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Correct answer: B — Keratocystic odontogenic tumour (KCOT)

The WHO 2005 classification reclassified the OKC as 'keratocystic odontogenic tumour' (KCOT) based on its neoplastic behaviour (PTCH1 mutations, high recurrence rate, aggressive growth). However, the WHO 2017 (4th edition) classification reverted the terminology back to 'odontogenic keratocyst' (OKC), reclassifying it as a cyst rather than a tumour, as there was insufficient evidence to support neoplastic classification for all OKCs. It is still recognised as having aggressive behaviour with high recurrence rates.

Reference: WHO – Classification of Head and Neck Tumours, 4th ed., 2017